Portugal: Jorge de Aguiar's chart of the Mediterranean, Western Europe and African Coast (1492)

A portolan chart from 1492, the oldest known signed and dated chart of Portuguese origin. Cartography technologies greatly advanced during the Age of Discovery. Iberian mapmakers in particular focused on practical charts to use as navigational aids.

Unlike Spanish maps which were considered a state secret, Portuguese maps were used by other countries, and Portuguese cartographers drew upon the skill and knowledge of other cultures, notably Islamic, as well.

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Supplier: CPA Media Co. Ltd.

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Pictures From History