European world maps

European world maps have evolved significantly over centuries, influenced by exploration, trade, and varying perceptions of geography.

Evolution of European World Maps

• Constant Changes: European maps were continually updated as explorers returned with new information. An example is the Vermeer painting of a geographer with a globe that contained an apology for inaccuracies, urging updates based on new discoveries 1.
• Trade and Knowledge: European advancements in navigation and trade in the 17th century greatly influenced their world maps, providing a more accurate representation of global geography compared to Chinese maps, which were less frequently updated due to limited foreign trade 1.

Medieval Worldview

• TO Maps: During the medieval period, European maps often took the form of "TO maps," depicting a circular layout with Asia occupying the top half, and Europe and Africa in the bottom halves. Jerusalem was placed at the center, and the maps oriented east as north 2.
• Greek and Roman Influence: The ancient Greeks and Romans divided the known world into three parts—Africa, Asia, and Europe—based on distinct climates and peoples. This classification persisted and evolved through the medieval period, influencing how Europeans perceived global geography 2.

These insights illustrate the dynamic nature of map-making and how historical and cultural contexts shaped Europeans' understanding of the world.