Old Map of the Kingdoms of Spain & Portugal by Visscher, 1690: Madrid, Lisbon, Barcelona, Gibraltar, Porto

Unearth the rich tapestry of the past with our meticulously detailed map, 'Hispaniae et Portugalliae Regna' - a Latin title that translates to 'The Kingdoms of Spain and Portugal'. Crafted by the celebrated mapmaker Nicolaes Visscher II in 1690, this exquisite map invites you on a journey through time, presenting an accurate depiction of the political and administrative divisions of the Iberian Peninsula during the late 17th century. Visscher, a member of the esteemed Visscher family of cartographers, was known for his remarkable precision and artistry, hallmarks that are clearly visible in this masterpiece.

The map's geographical scope encompasses the modern-day territories of Spain and Portugal, and showcases a number of significant cities including Madrid, Lisbon, Barcelona, Gibraltar, and Porto. Each city is rendered with painstaking accuracy, offering a unique window into the urban landscapes of the time. The map also highlights a myriad of natural features such as forests, waterways, canals, and mountains, providing a comprehensive overview of the region's diverse terrain.

In addition to its geographical details, 'Hispaniae et Portugalliae Regna' is a visual feast of decorative elements. The map is adorned with ornate cartouches, a coat of arms, and a compass rose, elements that not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also provide valuable insights into the artistic conventions of the period. The map's hand-colored outlines further accentuate its visual charm, lending it a vibrant and captivating allure.

Beyond its visual and geographical elements, 'Hispaniae et Portugalliae Regna' also serves as a historical document, chronicling the political landscape of the Iberian Peninsula in the late 17th century. The map's detailed depiction of political and administrative boundaries offers a glimpse into the region's complex political history, making it an invaluable resource for history enthusiasts and collectors alike. With its blend of historical accuracy, artistic craftsmanship, and geographical detail, 'Hispaniae et Portugalliae Regna' is more than just a map - it's a portal to a bygone era.

Some of the significant locations shown on this map:

Kingdom of Spain

1. Madrid: Known as the capital of Spain, it was already a significant city by 1690. Historical name: Mayrit.
2. Barcelona: An important city on the northeastern coast of Spain, known for its rich history and culture. Historical name: Barcino.
3. Seville: Located in southern Spain, it was the economic center of the Spanish empire due to its port. Historical name: Hispalis.
4. Valencia: Known for its arts and sciences, it's located on the southeastern coast. Historical name: Valentia.
5. Zaragoza: Located in northeastern Spain, it's known for its landmarks like the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar. Historical name: Caesaraugusta.
6. Malaga: A port city in southern Spain, known for its high-rise hotels and resorts. Historical name: Malaka.
7. Murcia: Known for its agriculture, especially its vineyards. Historical name: Mursiya.
8. Palma: The capital city of the Balearic Islands, known for its beach resorts. Historical name: Palma.
9. Bilbao: Located in northern Spain, it's known for the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. Historical name: Bilbo.
10. Valladolid: Once the capital of Spain, it's known for its historic buildings. Historical name: Pucela.
11. Cordoba: Known for the Great Mosque of Cordoba, an important Islamic landmark. Historical name: Qurtuba.
12. Toledo: Known for its medieval Arab, Jewish and Christian monuments. Historical name: Toletum.
13. Granada: Known for the Alhambra, a Moorish citadel and palace. Historical name: Gharnata.
14. Salamanca: Known for the University of Salamanca, one of the oldest universities in Europe. Historical name: Salamantica.
15. Burgos: Known for its Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Historical name: Burgus.

Kingdom of Portugal

1. Lisbon: The capital of Portugal, it's known for its colonial history. Historical name: Olisipo.
2. Porto: Known for its stately bridges and port wine production. Historical name: Portus Cale.
3. Viseu: Known for its historical buildings, especially the Viseu Cathedral. Historical name: Viso.
4. Braga: Known for its religious history and monuments, like the Braga Cathedral. Historical name: Bracara Augusta.
5. Coimbra: Known for the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world. Historical name: Conimbriga.
6. Setubal: Known for its fishing industry and natural parks. Historical name: Caetobriga.
7. Faro: Known for its preserved medieval quarters and lively nightlife. Historical name: Ossonoba.
8. Evora: Known for its well-preserved old town center, still partially enclosed by medieval walls. Historical name: Ebora.
9. Guarda: Known for its high altitude and historic cathedral. Historical name: Guarda.
10. Beja: Known for its rich history and the Beja Castle. Historical name: Pax Julia.
11. Santarem: Known for its gothic churches. Historical name: Scalabis.
12. Portalegre: Known for its tapestry and silk manufacturing. Historical name: Portalegre.
13. Castelo Branco: Known for its historical buildings and gardens. Historical name: Castelo Branco.
14. Aveiro: Known for its canals and colorful moliceiro boats. Historical name: Aveiro.
15. Leiria: Known for its castle and historic city center. Historical name: Leiria.

Notable Natural Phenomena

1. Pyrenees: A range of mountains forming a natural border between Spain and France.
2. Sierra Nevada: A mountain range in southern Spain known for its unique flora and fauna.
3. Tagus River: The longest river on the Iberian Peninsula, flowing through Spain and Portugal.
4. Douro Valley: A notable wine region in Portugal.
5. Ria Formosa: A network of islands and lagoons along the Algarve coast in Portugal.

Notable Historical Events (1600-1690)

1. The Treaty of Madrid (1661): Ended the conflict between Spain and Portugal over territories in the Americas and Asia.
2. The Portuguese Restoration War (1640-1668): Led to the end of the Iberian Union and the recognition of Portugal's sovereignty.
3. The expulsion of the Moriscos (1609-1614): A mass expulsion of Muslims from Spain by King Philip III.

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 all sizes: 12x16in (30.5x41cm), 16x20in (40.5x51cm), 18x24in (45.5x61cm), 24x30in (61x76cm), 32x40in (81.5x102cm), 40x50in (102x127cm), 48x60in (122x153cm) and 56x70in (142x178cm), but it looks even better when printed large.

I can create beautiful, large prints of this map up to 90in (229cm). Please get in touch if you're looking for larger, customised or different framing options.

The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40.5x51cm) 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 of Europe and European cities 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.

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. On maps up to 36 inches (91cm) the frame is 1.5-3cm (0.6in to 1in) wide. I use thicker frames on larger maps - usually between 35 and 60mm (1.4in to 2.4in).

In all cases 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.

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.

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

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.

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 have specialist printing and framing facilities in 17 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 maps are extremely high quality reproductions of original maps.

I source original, extremely 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 how the Unique Maps Co. sources and restores old maps

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.

If you are not happy with your unique map for any reason, contact me for a no-quibble refund.

I am very confident you will like your old map. I have been doing this since 1984. I'm a 5-star Etsy seller. I have sold tens of thousands of maps and have over 1,500 real 5-star reviews.

I use a unique process to restore my maps that is massively time consuming and labour intensive. Hunting down the original maps can take months. I use state of the art and eye-wateringly expensive technology to scan and restore the maps. As a result, I guarantee my maps are a cut above the rest - that's why I can offer a no-quibble refund.

Almost all of my maps 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.