Antique map titled '14th Chart of the Coast of France, from Port Vendres to the Petit Rhône'. Original map with later hand coroling of the coast of Southern France.
The "14th Chart of the Coast of France, from Port Vendres to the Petit Rhône" is an antique map that offers a detailed depiction of the southern coast of France, specifically highlighting the Mediterranean coastline. This map, which dates back to 1793, was originally part of "Le Petit Neptune Français; Or, French Coasting Pilot," a publication designed for maritime navigation along the French coastlines.
Key Features of the Map:
1. **Geographic Coverage**:
- The map covers the southern French coastline from Port Vendres in the west to the Petit Rhône in the east.
- It includes notable regions such as Languedoc, the Gulf of Lyon, and parts of Catalonia (Spain).
2. **Notable Places**:
- **Montpellier**: A major city in the Diocese of Montpellier, an important cultural and economic center.
- **Narbonne**: Located in the Diocese of Narbonne, a historical city with Roman heritage.
- **Agde**: Situated in the Diocese of Agde, known for its ancient Greek colony origins.
- **Béziers**: Part of the Diocese of Béziers, another city with deep historical roots dating back to Roman times.
- **Port Vendres**: A critical port near the Spanish border.
- **Catalonia**: Including parts of northeastern Spain, emphasizing the coastal connection between France and Spain.
3. **Dioceses and Regions**:
- The map is marked with various dioceses such as Montpellier, Agde, Narbonne, and Béziers, indicating ecclesiastical boundaries.
- It highlights the broader region of Languedoc, a historical province known for its wine production and medieval history.
4. **Navigational Aids**:
- The map features a compass rose with radiating lines, a common navigational aid in maritime maps...
Category
Late 18th Century Antique Giovanni Maria Cassini