Secret Symbols of Maps: What They Show — and What They Hide

🌍 What Do Maps Say? And What Do They Hide?

Historical maps don’t just show mountains, rivers, and cities. They also reflect the worldview of the mapmaker — their political messages, mythological stories, and artistic tastes.One of the richest parts of these maps is the cartouche, a decorative frame that often holds secret symbols of maps and stories. Sometimes, these cartouches tell us more than the map itself!

In this blog post, we explore the meanings of the symbols often seen on historical maps. And of course, we highlight a rare example from the Agora Old Prints and Maps collection.

🧭 1. Compass Rose – More Than Just Directions

One of the first things we notice in old maps is the beautiful compass rose.

But it’s not just a tool for navigation — it often places East (the Orient) at the top. That’s because older maps saw Jerusalem and the East as sacred centers.

Some compass roses also show the faces of wind gods, symbolizing how people in ancient times imagined the winds.

🐉2. Sea Monsters and “Here Be Dragons”

On many 16th-century maps, the unknown parts of the world are filled with scary sea monsters.These creatures reflect both the fear and imagination people had about uncharted lands.Sometimes the Latin phrase “Hic sunt dracones” (Here be dragons) is written to warn of possible dangers.

🏛️3. Exploring the Secret Symbols of Maps: The Rich Meaning Behind Historical Allegorical Cartouches – Where Maps Tell Stories

The most detailed symbols often appear in the cartouches. Now let’s take a closer look at a special map in our collection:

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🔎 Robert de Vaugondy’s 18th-Century Map of Asia Minor

This beautiful map was made by the French cartographer Robert de Vaugondy in the 1700s. It shows Asia Minor, also known as Anatolia (modern-day Turkey).

The cartouche is more than decoration — it tells a story of history and identity.

Cartouche of Robert de Vaugondy’s 18th-Century Map of Asia Minor

🛡️ Helmet, Sword, Shield, and Flag

These symbols represent military strength and conquest. They remind us that Anatolia has seen many wars and empires — from Rome and Byzantium to the Ottomans.

🏛️ Marble Frame and Ram Heads

The marble frame points to classical architecture, highlighting Anatolia’s Greco-Roman roots. The ram heads are linked to ancient rituals and mythology from Greek, Roman, and Hittite cultures.

🌿 Laurel and Oak Leaves

Laurel leaves stand for victory and honor, while oak leaves mean strength and endurance.These symbols reflect both the military and cultural power of the region.

🏺 Amphora and Draped Fabric

These represent trade and prosperity. The amphora (a large ancient jar) and flowing fabric show that Anatolia has long been a center for commerce and production.

🏰 Fortress and Smoky Chimneys

These buildings hint at city defenses, industry, and everyday life. The red conical rooftops may be inspired by Ottoman architecture. The map reflects not just history, but also what life in Anatolia looked like in the 18th century.

📌 This rare map is part of the Agora Old Prints and Maps collection. It’s both a beautiful decorative piece and a historical document. To see detailed images and purchase it, visit our Etsy shop.

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🕊️ 4.Religious and Esoteric Symbols

Some maps show crosses, crescents, or zodiac signs. These symbols reflect the beliefs and worldviews of the time. Star charts and astrology symbols in 17th-century maps combine cosmos and geography, creating a mix of science and mysticism.

🧱 5.Imaginary Architecture and City Icons

Some maps show castles or grand cities that didn’t exist in real life. These are not mistakes — they show the mapmaker’s imagination or symbolic meaning. For example, Venice or Istanbul often appear with huge buildings, showing their importance in the world at the time.

Maps Tell More Than Places

Old maps do more than point out locations. They carry ideas, symbols, fears, and dreams. The symbols in cartouches show the spirit of the time — what people believed, what they feared, and what they valued.

At Agora Old Prints and Maps, we believe historical maps are not just collectibles — they are also powerful tools of cultural memory.