Explaining the World's Oldest Map: What Did Ancient Babylonians Envision the World to Be?

世界最古の地図を解説|古代バビロニア人が描いた世界とは

"What was the world's first map like?"

Today, we can easily view maps on our smartphones,
but how did ancient people understand the world?

This time, we will explain the "Babylonian Map of the World,"
which is considered the "world's oldest map," in an easy-to-understand way.


 

世界最古の地図 バビロニア世界地図

The World's Oldest Map: The Babylonian Map of the World


1. What is the world's oldest map?

The "Babylonian Map of the World," created around the 6th century BC,
is known as the world's oldest map.

This map is inscribed on a clay tablet
and is currently housed in the British Museum.

A distinctive feature is that the world is depicted
with the Euphrates River at its center.

For the people of that time, "the world" was
something that spread out from their sphere of life.


2. The world view of the time

This map does not contain accurate geographical information like modern maps.

However,

  • cities,
  • surrounding regions,
  • and unknown lands

are depicted with unique interpretations.

Particularly interesting is the depiction of
"unknown territories" on the outside.

This shows that the people of that time believed
there was something beyond the world.


Decorations and Worldview of Ancient Maps (Generated by ChatGPT)


3. The fascination of ancient maps

The charm of ancient maps lies not in their "accuracy," but< data-start="799" data-end="802">in the "imagination" of the people of that era.

Modern maps are accurate and convenient, but< data-start="838" data-end="841">ancient maps are filled with curiosity and romance for the unknown.

It's as if it's the very process of humanity
gradually understanding the world.


▼ Related Articles (Internal Links)

Learn more about the charm of ancient maps here
👉What is the charm of ancient maps? A world of history and romance


4. Connection with MAPKURA

MAPKURA focuses on the intellectual charm and stories of these ancient maps,
and develops stationery and goods with map motifs.

Ancient maps are not merely "historical documents," but< data-start="1088" data-end="1091">a symbol of intellectual curiosity that still resonates today.

We deliver items that allow you to feel their charm
in your daily life.


Summary

The world's oldest map is a valuable document that
shows how ancient people perceived the world.

It is filled with
curiosity and a spirit of inquiry into the unknown.

Why not delve into "the history of human endeavor to understand the world"
through ancient maps?

0 comments

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.