1593 Lugdunum
By: Braun & Hogenberg
Date: 1573 (published) Cologne
Dimensions: 13.25 x 19 inches (33.6 x 48.3 cm)
This bird’s eye view is one of the earliest known pictorial depictions of Lyon, the third largest city in France. Although archaeological evidence shows that the area was inhabited in prehistoric times, it was not until the Roman period that an organized community of note was established in the area. The depiction of the city includes much of its architectural heritage from past eras, and creates the impression of a well-organized and bustling city, with seafaring vessels and countless smaller watercraft plying the waters nearby.
As noted in the cartouche text, Strabo had written that in his day Lyon was the second best-known city in Gaul, and after Narbonne, the most densely populated. The text goes on to describe the city in the 16th century, saying that it had continued to grow and that its walls surrounded vast territories including two hills and vineyards. It further describes Lyon as a city which attracted foreign businessmen who opted to take up residence there, for the transportation of goods was made convenient by the city’s geographical location at the confluence of two major rivers.
The verso contains one page of highly detailed text in French describing the city and its environs in detail. Starting with its origins in antiquity, the text provides enormous information regarding the city, its development, its mercantile traditions and its splendid architectural edifices, many of which are extant today. Political regimes and various changes brought about by them are also described. Several historical districts of the city are listed as UNESCO world heritage sites.
Condition: This map is in A- condition with exceptional hand colour on beautiful heavy and clean paper. Full margins on all sides and no tears or stains, but four small wormholes along the centerfold.