Old Port of St. Nicholas, Greece Nautical Chart by Heather, 1802: Kythira, Fort, Harbor

Introduction to the Map The Port of St. Nicholas in Serigo, meticulously charted by the esteemed British hydrographer William Heather in 1802, stands as a quintessential example of early 19th-century nautical cartography. This detailed nautical chart not only showcases the intricate coastal configurations of Serigo (now known as Kythira), but also provides a vivid depiction of the maritime landscape as understood during the era. Heather, known for his precision in the surveying of the Mediterranean and the Levant, produced this chart for inclusion in his seminal work, the New Mediterranean Pilot. The map’s richness in navigational detail and its historical context make it a fascinating artifact, reflecting the strategic maritime importance of this region during a time of burgeoning naval exploration.

Detailing the Nautical Features Heather’s chart is a treasure trove of nautical information, offering a comprehensive view of the Port of St. Nicholas with an abundance of depth soundings that guide the mariner through the bay’s waters. The map delineates the rugged coastline with exceptional clarity, marking the location of the fort and the layout of St. Nicholas town. Notably, it includes detailed depictions of navigational aids such as buoys and lighthouses, crucial for safe passage. The inclusion of various reefs, shoals, and the depiction of water currents and wind directions further enhance its utility and historical value, providing insights into the challenges faced by sailors of that time.

Cartographic Style and Technique The design of the map is a testament to the cartographic style of the early 1800s, characterized by hand-drawn, colored details that not only serve a functional purpose but also add an artistic quality to the chart. The meticulous attention to detail in the portrayal of topographical features and maritime elements is typical of Heather’s work, who was renowned for his skill in blending accuracy with aesthetic appeal. This chart is not merely a navigational tool but also a piece of art, reflecting the high standards of mapmaking during Heather’s tenure as a master surveyor.

Historical and Geographical Context The Port of St. Nicholas, located on the southern tip of Kythira, holds a significant place in maritime history, serving as a vital point of navigation in the Mediterranean. The strategic importance of this area, situated just off the south coast of the Peloponnesian Peninsula, is captured eloquently in Heather’s chart. This map offers a window into the past, illustrating how geography and human settlement patterns influenced maritime trade routes and military strategy in the Mediterranean basin. The historical significance of this chart is amplified by its rarity and the pivotal period it represents in nautical exploration.

Broader Significance and Appeal This chart is not only a critical piece for historians and collectors but also serves as an educational tool that sheds light on the evolution of nautical cartography and its role in historical maritime journeys. For enthusiasts of maritime history, this map is a link to the age of exploration, symbolizing the human endeavor to understand and navigate the complex tapestry of the world’s seas and oceans. Its appeal lies in its ability to connect us with the maritime past, enriched with tales of sailors and explorers who charted unknown waters with such maps as their guides.

Notable places on this map

• Port St Nicholas
• Fort St Nicholas
• St Nicholas Island
• Serigo Island

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Detailed depiction of the coastline of Serigo (Kythira)
• Location of the town of St. Nicholas and the fort
• Harbor and channel leading into the harbor
• Various islands, reefs, and shoals in the area
• Navigational aids such as buoys and lighthouses
• Depth soundings, currents, and wind directions

Historical and design context

• Map Title: The Port of St. Nicholas in Serigo
• Date: 1802
• Mapmaker/Publisher: William Heather, a British hydrographer known for his detailed nautical charts
• Historical Significance: Provides a detailed look at the Port of St. Nicholas in 1802, a rare example of early 19th-century nautical chart
• Design or Style: Hand-drawn, colored map, showcasing early 1800s cartographic style with detailed maritime and topographical information

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