Old Map of Milan by Braun & Hogenberg, 1572: Cathedral, Fortifications, Streets, Fields

The map titled "Mediolanum," crafted by the renowned cartographers Georg Braun and Frans Hogenberg in 1572, offers a captivating bird's eye view of Milan. This exquisite piece is part of the influential "Civitates Orbis Terrarum," a collection that stands as a testament to the urban planning and architectural grandeur of the Renaissance. The map’s finely colored illustrations vividly capture the essence of Milan, showcasing its intricate layout and fortifications. As one of the earliest obtainable views of the city, it provides a unique glimpse into the historical landscape of this vibrant Italian metropolis.

Milan, a city steeped in history and culture, is depicted with remarkable detail. The central cathedral, a focal point of the map, symbolizes the city's architectural prowess and religious significance. Surrounding the city are meticulously illustrated agricultural fields, highlighting the region's rich agrarian heritage. The map also features heraldic shields and decorative cartouches, adding a layer of artistic elegance to this historical document.

The work of Braun and Hogenberg is notable not only for its artistic beauty but also for its historical accuracy. Their maps are celebrated for capturing the spirit of the cities they depict, and "Mediolanum" is no exception. The detailed rendering of Milan's streets and landmarks offers a window into the past, allowing viewers to explore the city's bustling neighborhoods and significant sites. This map is a valuable resource for historians and enthusiasts alike, providing insights into the urban development of one of Italy's most important cities.

The city’s intricate network of streets, such as Calle del Duomo and Calle dei Mercanti, are clearly labeled, inviting exploration and discovery. These thoroughfares, bustling with life and commerce, reflect Milan's status as a thriving center of trade and culture during the Renaissance. The depiction of city walls and fortifications further emphasizes Milan's strategic importance and its role as a defensive stronghold in the region.

Overall, this map of Milan is a remarkable blend of art and history, capturing the essence of a city that has long been a beacon of innovation and culture. The work of Braun and Hogenberg continues to inspire and educate, offering a timeless snapshot of Milan's past. Whether for academic study or personal appreciation, "Mediolanum" is a treasure that brings the rich tapestry of Renaissance Milan to life.

Streets and roads on this map

• Calle del Arcivescovado
• Calle della Scala
• Calle dei Fabbri
• Calle dei Mercanti
• Calle del Duomo
• Calle del Monte di Pietà
• Calle della Posta
• Calle di Sant'Ambrogio
• Calle di San Babila
• Calle di Santa Maria
• Calle di San Vittore
• Calle di Santo Stefano
• Calle della Zecca
• Calle del Broletto
• Calle del Carmine
• Calle del Gesù
• Calle del Lupo
• Calle del Popolo
• Calle del Teatro
• Calle del Verziere
• Calle delle Erbe
• Calle delle Ore
• Calle delle Palle
• Calle delle Scuole
• Calle delle Spade
• Calle di Brera
• Calle di Porta Nuova
• Calle di Porta Romana
• Calle di Porta Ticinese
• Calle di Porta Vercellina

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Illustrations:
• Decorative elements and figures in period attire.
• Landmarks:
• The central cathedral.
• City walls and fortifications.
• Other Notable Features:
• Agricultural fields surrounding the city.
• Heraldic shields and cartouches.

Historical and design context

• Creation Date: 1572
• Mapmakers/Publishers: Georg Braun and Frans Hogenberg
• Themes and Topics:
• City Bird's Eye View: Offers a detailed pictorial representation of Milan.
• Historical Context: One of the earliest obtainable views of Milan, providing insight into the city's layout during the Renaissance.
• Design/Style:
• Pictorial Map: Features a bird's eye view with detailed illustrations.
• Coloring: Finely colored, enhancing visual appeal and detail.
• Historical Significance:
• Influential Work: Part of a highly influential book of town views, reflecting urban design and architecture of the period.

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 90in (230cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45x60cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.