Retrospektive, year IV, number 1

Article summary

The scientific monograph Cartographic Treasures of Slovenian Territory explores cartographic depictions of Slovenian lands from antiquity to the late 19th century. Presented in seven chapters, the monograph is bilingual (Slovenian and English) and divided into two main parts. The first part offers a concise textual overview of the development of cartography through historical periods, contextualizing the “spirit of the time and place” in which the maps were created. The second part predominantly features high-quality visual and graphic representations of the cartographic materials, complemented by brief commentaries on their historical background, authorship, production, and publication details.

The authors highlight the multidimensional significance of cartography, not only for geography but also as a valuable cultural heritage across various scientific and artistic disciplines. They critically address the cartographic accuracy of the presented works, the use and evolution of toponyms, and intriguing details in accompanying illustrations and texts. With its systematic organization, large format (36.7 x 27.2 cm), and bilingual content, the monograph is accessible to a wide audience and invites further Slovenian and international research initiatives. Its free availability online underscores its contribution to fostering the appreciation of cartographic heritage and its historical evolution.