Map symbols are visual representations of geographical characteristics including mountains, rivers, cities, and roads. These symbols are intended to be instantly and effectively recognised and to communicate information. Additionally, maps frequently employ color to convey other information, including height or land usage.
The Catalan Atlas, which was made in 1375 by Majorcan Jew Abraham Cresques, is one of the first examples of a map incorporating symbols. King Peter IV of Aragon ordered the map, which depicted the Mediterranean region in great detail, including the locations of cities, ports, and trade routes. Biblical images and legendary creatures were also shown on the map, which was typical of medieval cartography. Another sort of map that mainly relied on symbols was the portolan chart, which was used by sailors and navigators in the Middle Ages. Lines were drawn on parchment or vellum to depict the direction and separation between ports and other markers for these charts. The charts also had icons for dangers including rocks, shoals, and strong currents.
Thanks to the use of cutting-edge technology like computer modeling, satellite images, and other cutting-edge technologies, cartography has gone even further in the modern era. However, the fundamentals of cartography remain the same, with the use of symbols and colors to communicate crucial information about our environment.
As a result, symbols on a map are an essential tool for comprehending the world and locating our location within it. Cartography has played a crucial part in forming our perception of the world around us and assisting us in navigating it safely and effectively, from the Catalan Atlas to contemporary GPS devices.