Rare Old Map of Iran and Afghanistan, 1967: Caspian Sea, Persian Gulf, Western Pakistan

Crafted with meticulous precision by the Polish Army Topography Service in 1967, the 'Iran, Afghanistan' map offers a rich tapestry of geographical and political information. The map showcases a detailed political and physical layout of the countries of Iran and Afghanistan, offering an immersive experience for the viewer. The creators of the map have employed a style that is both detailed and intricate, ensuring that every aspect of these nations' topography is accurately represented. The map offers an intriguing glimpse into the historical context of these regions, with a focus on the political landscape of the time.

The map's coverage extends beyond the borders of Iran and Afghanistan, reaching into the western regions of Pakistan, including the cities of Peshawar and Karachi. The map also encapsulates the vast expanse of the Caspian Sea to the north and the Persian Gulf to the south, highlighting their strategic importance in the region. These inclusions not only provide a broader geographical context but also underscore the interconnectedness of these regions, both politically and geographically.

In terms of physical features, the map does a commendable job of detailing the mountainous terrains of Iran and Afghanistan, providing a clear representation of the region's rugged topography. This attention to detail offers viewers a comprehensive understanding of the natural phenomena that have shaped these countries' landscapes and, by extension, their histories. The map's depiction of significant cities, towns, and landmarks further enriches the viewer's understanding of the region's cultural and historical significance.

Lastly, the 'Iran, Afghanistan' map is a testament to the expertise of the Polish Army Topography Service. The map's intricate detailing and accurate representation of geographical and political features demonstrate the mapmaker's proficiency and dedication to their craft. The map serves not only as a geographical guide but also as a historical document, offering insights into the political landscape of the mid-20th century. This makes it a valuable addition to any collection, appealing to not only cartography enthusiasts but also those with an interest in history and geopolitics.

Major Cities in Iran:

• Tehran
• Mashhad
• Isfahan
• Tabriz
• Shiraz

Major Cities in Afghanistan:

• Kabul
• Kandahar
• Herat
• Mazar-i-Sharif
• Jalalabad

Major Cities in Western Pakistan:

• Karachi
• Peshawar
• Quetta
• Hyderabad
• Sukkur

National Parks in Iran:

• Golestan National Park
• Kavir National Park
• Bakhtegan National Park
• Zagros Mountains

National Parks in Afghanistan:

• Band-e Amir National Park
• Wakhan National Park

National Landmarks in Iran:

• Persepolis
• Imam Reza Shrine
• Azadi Tower
• Naqsh-e Jahan Square

National Landmarks in Afghanistan:

• Minaret of Jam
• Buddhas of Bamiyan
• Kabul Museum
• Citadel of Herat

Historical Events (up to 1967):

• Iran: Nationalization of the Iranian oil industry (1951)
• Afghanistan: The establishment of the Republic of Afghanistan (1953)
• Pakistan: The Indo-Pakistani War (1965)

Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.

This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.

This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45x60cm) version of this map.

The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.

If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.

Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.

This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.

This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.