The "Pyrenees" map, crafted by the illustrious Jacques Liozu in 1951, is a captivating pictorial representation of the French Pyrenees, a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Liozu, celebrated for his illustrative and thematic cartography, imbues this map with a unique blend of artistry and geographical precision. His work is a testament to the mid-20th century cartographic style, where maps were not just navigational tools but also works of art that captured the essence of a place.
This map is a visual feast, adorned with a decorative compass rose and detailed illustrations that bring the Pyrenees to life. The relief is shown pictorially, offering a vivid depiction of the mountainous terrain. The map is teeming with cultural and historical elements, from traditional attire and local festivities to significant landmarks like castles and churches. It beautifully portrays the harmonious blend of nature and human activity that defines the Pyrenees region.
Liozu's map highlights the intricate network of cities and towns that dot the Pyrenees-Orientales. Major settlements such as Perpignan, Pau, and Bayonne are prominently featured, each illustrated with distinctive architectural and cultural markers. The map also showcases smaller towns like Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and Ax-les-Thermes, capturing the diverse and vibrant human tapestry of the region. These illustrations provide a glimpse into the daily lives and traditions of the people who inhabit this picturesque landscape.
The natural features of the Pyrenees are meticulously depicted, with artistic renderings of mountain peaks, rivers, and forests. The map includes visual representations of local flora and fauna, adding to its charm and educational value. Notable natural phenomena such as caves and winter sports activities like skiing are also illustrated, highlighting the region's appeal to adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. This attention to detail underscores the map's role as both a geographical guide and a cultural artifact.
Historically, this map offers a snapshot of the Pyrenees region as it was understood in the mid-20th century. It reflects the historical significance of the border between France and Spain, with illustrations of maritime activities along the coast and traditional farming and shepherding in the interior. The map is not just a tool for navigation but a window into the past, capturing the essence of a region steeped in history and tradition. Jacques Liozu's "Pyrenees" map is a masterpiece that continues to enchant and inform, making it a prized addition to any collection.
Cities and towns on this map
- Perpignan
- Pau
- Bayonne
- Tarbes
- Foix
- Lourdes
- Pamiers
- Saint-Gaudens
- Oloron-Sainte-Marie
- Muret
- Bagnères-de-Luchon
- Argelès-Gazost
- Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port
- Ax-les-Thermes
- Quillan
- Prades
- Lannemezan
- Orthez
- Mirepoix
- Saint-Girons
- Lavelanet
- Cauterets
- Bagnères-de-Bigorre
- Vic-en-Bigorre
- Arreau
- Mauléon-Licharre
- Osséja
- Mont-Louis
- Font-Romeu-Odeillo-Via
- Amélie-les-Bains-Palalda
- Céret
- Arles-sur-Tech
- Collioure
- Port-Vendres
- Banyuls-sur-Mer
- Cerbère
- San Sebastián
Notable Features & Landmarks
- Decorative compass rose
- Illustrations of local attire and cultural activities
- Historic landmarks such as castles and churches
- Pictorial relief showing the terrain of the Pyrenees mountains
- Illustrations of animals native to the region
- Depictions of traditional farming and shepherding activities
- Representation of local flora and fauna
- Artistic renderings of historical events and legends
- Visual indication of major rivers and mountain peaks
- Illustrations of local festivals and dances
- Pictorial depictions of winter sports such as skiing
- Drawings of traditional architecture and buildings
- Representation of local crafts and trades
- Illustrations of significant natural features like caves and forests
- Depictions of maritime activities along the coast
- Visual representation of the border between France and Spain
Historical and design context
- The map depicts the French Pyrenees, which are part of the Pyrenees-Orientales.
- Created in 1951 by Jacques Liozu, known for his illustrative and pictorial maps.
- The map features a pictorial and illustrative style, with artistic representations of landmarks, people, and cultural elements.
- The relief is shown pictorially, adding a visual dimension to the terrain.
- The map is a thematic and pictorial representation of the Pyrenees region, including historical landmarks, cultural elements, and geographical features.
- It reflects the cultural and geographical understanding of the region in the mid-20th century.
- Decorative elements such as the compass rose and illustrations of local attire and activities are prominent.
- The map provides a visual representation of the Pyrenees region, capturing the essence of a place steeped in history and tradition.
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 70in (180cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
The model in the listing images is holding the 24x36in (60x90cm) 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.