Step into the golden age of aviation with the "KLM Holland Kiralyi Legiforgalmi Tarsasag World Map," a captivating artifact from 1955. Created by KLM, the Royal Dutch Airlines, this map is a testament to the airline's extensive network, showcasing 118 routes spanning 74 countries. As one of the oldest airlines still operating under its original name, KLM's storied history and pioneering spirit are vividly brought to life through this pictorial masterpiece. Each route, meticulously charted, underscores the global reach and ambition of KLM during the mid-20th century, a time when air travel was transforming the world.

The map is adorned with an array of illustrations that offer a window into the cultural and historical richness of the destinations it connects. From the Eiffel Tower in France to the Great Wall of China, and the pyramids of Egypt, each landmark is rendered with artistic flair, celebrating the diverse heritage of the world. The inclusion of people in traditional attire further enriches the map, providing a visual narrative of the global tapestry that KLM's routes weave together. This thematic and pictorial approach not only informs but also delights, making the map a unique blend of art and geography.

Designed with both aesthetic appeal and informative precision, the map employs a clear and engaging cartographic style. The vibrant illustrations and the use of red lines to denote airline routes create a dynamic visual experience. The choice of colors and the detailed depiction of geographical features, such as mountain ranges and bodies of water, enhance the map's readability and charm. The KLM logo, prominently displayed, serves as a reminder of the airline's legacy and its role in connecting the world.

The historical significance of this map extends beyond its visual allure. It captures a pivotal moment in the history of aviation, reflecting the burgeoning era of international air travel in the 1950s. KLM's expansive network, as depicted on the map, highlights the airline's role in bridging continents and cultures, fostering a sense of global interconnectedness. This map is not just a navigational tool but a symbol of the progress and possibilities that air travel brought to the world.

For collectors and enthusiasts, the "KLM Holland Kiralyi Legiforgalmi Tarsasag World Map" offers a rare glimpse into the past. It is a piece of history that speaks to the adventurous spirit of the time and the pioneering efforts of KLM. Whether displayed as a work of art or studied for its historical context, this map is a treasure trove of stories and a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the world's most iconic airlines.

Countries and regions on this map

• Continents:
• North America
• South America
• Europe
• Africa
• Asia
• Australia
• Countries and regions:
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Various Central American and Caribbean nations
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Various South American nations
• United Kingdom
• France
• Germany
• Italy
• Spain
• Various Western and Eastern European countries
• Egypt
• South Africa
• Various African nations
• India
• China
• Japan
• Various Southeast Asian countries
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Various Pacific islands

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Additional illustrations outside the map:
• The KLM logo is prominently displayed in the bottom left corner.
• Bodies of water:
• All major oceans are depicted, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
• Mountain ranges:
• Illustrations of mountain ranges are visible in North America, South America, and Asia.
• Sea, road, and rail routes:
• The map primarily focuses on airline routes, with numerous red lines indicating KLM’s flight paths.
• Other interesting features:
• Illustrations of historical landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower in France, the Great Wall of China, and the pyramids in Egypt.
• Depictions of people in traditional attire from various regions.
• Jet airplanes flying over different parts of the map, emphasizing the theme of air travel.

Historical and design context

• Name of the map: KLM Holland Kiralyi Legiforgalmi Tarsasag World Map
• Date of creation: 1955
• Mapmaker/Publisher: KLM (Koninklijke Luchtvaart Maatschappij)
• Context about the mapmaker: KLM, also known as Royal Dutch Airlines, is the flag carrier airline of the Netherlands. It was founded in 1919, making it one of the oldest airlines still operating under its original name.
• Themes and topics shown on the map:
• Airline routes: The map highlights KLM's extensive network of routes connecting 118 cities across 74 countries.
• Cultural and historical landmarks: Numerous illustrations of landmarks, local attire, and significant cultural icons from various regions.
• Design or style of the map:
• The map is a pictorial and thematic representation, featuring vibrant illustrations and a clear depiction of airline routes.
• The design is both informative and artistic, with a focus on visual appeal and cultural representation.
• Historical significance or context:
• The map reflects the global reach of KLM in the mid-20th century, showcasing the importance of air travel in connecting different parts of the world.
• It provides a snapshot of the airline industry and international travel during the 1950s.

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 100in (250cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

Please note: the labels on this map are hard to read if you order a map that is 16in (40cm) or smaller. The map is still very attractive, but if you would like to read the map easily, please buy a larger size.

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.

This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.

For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.

Many of our maps and art prints are chosen as thoughtful gifts for homes, offices, studies and meaningful places.

Choose a framed option for the easiest ready-to-hang gift, or choose an unframed print if the recipient may prefer to select their own frame.

We make orders locally in 23 countries around the world, so gifts can often be produced close to the recipient. This helps them arrive faster, travel more safely, and avoid customs or import duty surprises.

• We can deliver directly to the recipient
• Framed pieces arrive ready to hang
• Unframed prints are carefully packed in a strong protective tube
• Almost every order is made locally, for faster, safer gifting
• 90-day returns give the recipient time to decide

If you are not sure what to choose, please contact us. We can help you pick the right map, size, finish or delivery option.

Most orders are made locally and delivered in around 2–3 working days, depending on the product, size and destination.

We print and frame maps and artwork in 23 countries around the world, so your order is usually made close to you or your recipient. That means faster delivery, less time in transit, and no customs or import duty surprises.

Personalised and customised pieces usually take an extra 1–2 working days, because we prepare your design and send it to you for approval before printing.

Very large framed orders can take a little longer, as they need extra care in production and delivery.

Every order is carefully packaged: unframed prints are sent in a strong protective tube, while framed pieces are securely packed with protective materials around the frame.

If you need your order by a particular date, please contact us before ordering. We’ll check the best production route and delivery option for your location.

Express delivery is available at checkout for most countries. Next-day delivery is available in the UK, US, Singapore and the UAE.

Your order is covered by our 90-day returns policy and 5-year guarantee.

Read our 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, art and illustrations are also available as a framed canvas. We use matte (not shiny) cotton canvas, stretch it over a sustainably sourced box wood frame, and then 'float' the piece within a wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing to get in the way.

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 and artwork on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

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

My maps are extremely high quality reproductions of original maps.

I source original, rare maps from libraries, auction houses and private collections around the world, restore them at my London workshop, and then use specialist giclée inks and printers to create beautiful maps that look even better than the original.

My maps are printed on acid-free archival matte (not glossy) paper that feels very high quality and almost like card. In technical terms the paper weight/thickness is 10mil/200gsm. It's perfect for framing.

I print with Epson ultrachrome giclée UV fade resistant pigment inks - some of the best inks you can find.

I can also make maps on canvas, cotton rag and other exotic materials.

Learn more about The Unique Maps Co.

Map personalisation

If you're looking for the perfect anniversary or housewarming gift, I can personalise your map to make it truly unique. For example, I can add a short message, or highlight an important location, or add your family's coat of arms.

The options are almost infinite. Please see my map personalisation page for some wonderful examples of what's possible.

To order a personalised map, select "personalise your map" before adding it to your basket.

Get in touch if you're looking for more complex customisations and personalisations.

Map ageing

I have been asked hundreds of times over the years by customers if they could buy a map that looks even older.

Well, now you can, by selecting Aged before you add a map to your basket.

All the product photos you see on this page show the map in its Original form. This is what the map looks like today.

If you select Aged, I will age your map by hand, using a special and unique process developed through years of studying old maps, talking to researchers to understand the chemistry of aging paper, and of course... lots of practice!

If you're unsure, stick to the Original colour of the map. If you want something a bit darker and older looking, go for Aged.

See some amazing examples of Aged maps.

If you are not happy with your order for any reason, contact me and I'll get it fixed ASAP, free of charge. Please see my returns and refund policy for more information.

I am very confident you will like your restored map or art print. I have been doing this since 1984. I'm a 5-star Etsy seller. I have sold tens of thousands of maps and art prints and have over 5,000 real 5-star reviews. My work has been featured in interior design magazines, on the BBC, and on the walls of dozens of 5-star hotels.

I use a unique process to restore maps and artwork that is massively time consuming and labour intensive. Hunting down the original maps and illustrations can take months. I use state of the art and eye-wateringly expensive technology to scan and restore them. As a result, I guarantee my maps and art prints are a cut above the rest. I stand by my products and will always make sure you're 100% happy with what you receive.

Almost all of my maps and art prints look amazing at large sizes (200cm, 6.5ft+) and I can frame and deliver them to you as well, via special oversized courier. Contact me to discuss your specific needs.