Old Map of Calicut in India by Braun & Hogenberg, 1572: Ormuz, Canonor, El Mina, Ships

Discover the allure of the 16th-century world with the "Calechut Celeberrimum Indiae Emporium," a captivating map crafted by the renowned Georg Braun and Frans Hogenberg in 1572. This exquisite piece offers a bird's-eye view of Calecut, a pivotal Indian trading center during the height of Portuguese influence. Rising majestically from a lush jungle of palm trees, the town is depicted with vibrant detail, showcasing its bustling activity and strategic importance in the spice trade. The presence of both Asian and European vessels illustrates the cultural and commercial exchanges that defined this era.

This map is not just a geographical representation but a window into the past, highlighting the significance of Calecut as a hub of global commerce. The detailed illustrations of ships and the construction of boats on the beach speak to the city's role as a maritime powerhouse. The depiction of an elephant with a mahout adds an exotic touch, symbolizing the rich biodiversity and cultural tapestry of the region.

Beyond Calecut, the map features inset views of other key locations, including Ormuz at the entrance of the Persian Gulf and Canonor in India. These cities, like Calecut, were vital nodes in the intricate web of 16th-century trade routes. The Portuguese fortress of El Mina in West Africa is also prominently displayed, underscoring the colonial ambitions and strategic fortifications that characterized the period.

The artistry of Braun and Hogenberg is evident in the map's design, with its vibrant colors and intricate details that capture the imagination. Their work in the "Civitates Orbis Terrarum" series is celebrated for its historical accuracy and aesthetic appeal, making this map a prized possession for collectors and history enthusiasts alike. It serves as a testament to the cartographic excellence and adventurous spirit of the Age of Exploration.

Owning this map is like holding a piece of history in your hands, offering a glimpse into the dynamic interplay of cultures, commerce, and conquest that shaped the modern world. Whether displayed in a study or a living room, it invites endless exploration and admiration, making it a perfect addition to any collection of historical treasures.

Streets and roads on this map

• There are no clearly labeled streets or roads visible on the map.

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Inset Maps:
• Views of Ormuz, Canonor, and El Mina.
• Illustrations:
• Ships and boats in detail, both Asian and European.
• An elephant with a mahout.
• Landmarks:
• Portuguese fortress of El Mina.
• Other Features:
• Jungle of palm trees surrounding Calecut.
• Construction of boats on the beach.

Historical and design context

• Creation Date: 1572
• Mapmaker/Publisher: Georg Braun & Frans Hogenberg
• Context: Part of Braun & Hogenberg's "Civitates Orbis Terrarum," the most famous and influential book of town plans published in the 16th century.
• Themes and Topics:
• Trade and Commerce: Illustrates important trading centers of the 16th century.
• Colonial Influence: Shows Portuguese trading posts and fortresses.
• Countries and Regions:
• India (Calecut, Canonor)
• Iran (Ormuz)
• West Africa (El Mina)
• Design/Style:
• Pictorial Map: Bird's-eye view style, providing a detailed depiction of cities.
• Historical Significance:
• Highlights the importance of trade routes and colonial expansion during the 16th century.

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 70in (180cm). 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.