Abstract
The monograph presents synoptic information from research into the history, content, resources and accessibility of nineteen Czech and Moravian map collections, archives, libraries, museums and universities. It also presents their most important cartographic collections and unique items.
These include printed and manuscript maps, atlases, plans, globes and views produced by woodcut or copperplate engraving techniques. In terms of topics, the book introduces cadastral, regional, forestry, religious, hydrological and geological maps, as well as urban and garden plans.
Cartographic curiosities, such as a map of Bohemia in the shape of a rose blossom, are also of interest. Regionally, mainly Bohemian and Moravian maps are represented, but there are also examples of maps of the Mediterranean, Alpine regions or Asia.
The descriptions and analyses are accompanied by 71 visual examples of old maps, plans, globes and views from 1518 to 1920. In addition, important figures among the cartographers and publishers, as well as curators or patrons who have substantially contributed to the creation and development of map collections are briefly introduced, too.
The author also evaluates and summarises the possibilities of physical and electronic availability of selected map collections. She also provides practical information on services for researchers.
The monograph thus for the first time provides a clear, comprehensive and critical view of selected important Czech map collections. The book is supplemented by indexes (personal and geographical), an annex in the form of a map showing locations of Czech map collections, a collection directory with contact details and a list of digital data aggregators.