Old Gulf of Haifa, Israel Nautical Chart by Heather, 1802: Caiffe, Syria, Mount Carmel, St. Jean d'Acre

Embark on a Nautical Journey with "The Gulf of Caiffe in Syria"

Dive into the rich tapestry of maritime history with the exquisite 1802 nautical chart, "The Gulf of Caiffe in Syria," masterfully created by the renowned British cartographer William Heather. At the time, Caiffe (Haifa) was part of Syria, not Israel.

This chart is not merely a navigational tool but a historical artifact, offering a window into the intricate maritime routes and strategic locations along the Eastern Mediterranean coast. Focused between the ancient cities of Acre and Haifa, this map intricately details the area including the iconic Mount Carmel, presenting a unique eastward orientation that was typical for specific navigational purposes of the time.

Masterful Cartography and Engraving

William Heather's work is distinguished by its meticulous attention to detail and artistic finesse, characteristics vividly apparent in this chart. Each line and symbol are finely engraved by John Stephenson, a notable London engraver whose craftsmanship adds a layer of depth and precision to the map. This chart is part of Heather's ambitious "The New Mediterranean Pilot," marking the first English foray into charting the Mediterranean ports—a domain previously dominated by French, Italian, and Spanish cartographers. The precision of the engravings and the clarity of the navigational elements make this map a standout example of early 19th-century British cartography.

A Detailed Guide to Maritime Navigation

The chart is replete with practical and historical maritime data, including soundings in fathoms, which are crucial for understanding water depths and navigating safely. It also details magnetic variations and showcases roads for ships, enhancing its utility for sailors of the time. Notably, the map features the Old and New Castles of Haifa and the formidable fortifications of St. Jean d'Acre, sites of significant historical events, particularly during the crusades. These elements not only serve navigational purposes but also provide a historical overview of the region's maritime defenses.

Rare and Historically Significant

As a rare artifact, this chart holds immense value for collectors and historians alike. It represents a pivotal moment in the cartographic history of the Mediterranean, being one of the few English-produced maps of the area during a period dominated by other European powers. The rarity is underscored by its limited circulation, making it a prized possession for any collector. The map's portrayal of strategic locations and topographical features, like the Gulf of Caiffa and Mount Carmel, offers insights into the geopolitical significance of these areas in the early 19th century.

An Artistic and Navigational Marvel

Beyond its utility for navigation and historical insight, "The Gulf of Caiffe in Syria" stands as a piece of art. The aesthetic appeal of Stephenson's engraving work, combined with Heather's cartographic precision, creates a visually stunning piece that transcends its original functional purpose. For those who appreciate the art of map-making, this chart is a testament to the skill and dedication of its creators and an enduring symbol of the era's navigational challenges and achievements. This map is not just a tool but a bridge to the past, inviting all who view it to a deeper understanding of the maritime history that shaped our world.

What can be seen on this map

• Coastal towns: Caiffa, St. Jean d'Acre
• Harbours: Road
• Large structures: Old Caiffe Castle
• Topographical features: Gulf of Caiffa, C. Blanc, M. Carmel

Notable Features & Landmarks

• The Gulf of Caiffa (Haifa)
• St Jean D'Acre (Akko)
• C. Blanc (Ras en Naqura)
• Old Caiffa (Haifa)
• New Caiffe (Haifa)
• M. Carmel (Mount Carmel)
• Compass Rose
• Soundings (water depth measurements in fathoms)
• Roads (for ships)
• Magnetic variation (15 degrees West)

Historical and design context

• Created by William Heather in 1802.
• A nautical chart, oriented with east at the top.
• Shows the area between Acre and Haifa, including Mount Carmel.
• Includes soundings, some topographical features, and anchorages.
• The Old Castle and New Castle of Haifa are shown, as is the fortification of St. Jean d'Acre.
• Finely engraved, with many charts signed in monogram by the London engraver John Stephenson.
• The first English attempt at a collection of ports of the Mediterranean.
• An important historical document, providing a detailed snapshot of the Gulf of Caiffe in Syria in 1802.

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 16x20in (40x50cm) 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.