Old Map of the Alps by Kartographia Winterthur, 1921: Switzerland, Austria, Italy, Mont Blanc, Dolomites

The 'Carte geologuique des Alpes', a map of inestimable value, was originally published in 1921 by Kartographia Winterthur, a renowned publisher in the field of cartography. The map provides an intricate portrayal of the geology of the Alps, a subject that has captivated the minds of scientists and explorers for centuries. The meticulous attention to detail and the precise delineation of geological features set this map apart. The legend, which is rich in information, highlights various types of rock, glaciers, moraines, and more, providing a comprehensive overview of the Alpine geology.

As a country map, the 'Carte geologuique des Alpes' stands out for its coverage of multiple nations that are nestled in the Alps. It encompasses Switzerland, Austria, regions of France, Italy, and Germany that border the Alps, and Slovenia. The detailed political and physical map allows one to explore the geographical nuances of these countries and their relationship with the Alpine range. It provides a unique perspective on how these nations have been shaped and influenced by their proximity to the Alps, both geographically and culturally.

The style of the map is noteworthy for its intricate detailing and use of color. The full-color geological map provides a vivid representation of the Alpine region, with relief shown by shadings. The use of color not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the map but also serves a functional purpose, enabling the viewer to distinguish between different geological features. The detailed political map, on the other hand, provides a comprehensive overview of the political boundaries within the Alpine region, adding another layer of depth to the viewer's understanding of this area.

Kartographia Winterthur, the publisher of this map, is known for their commitment to accuracy and detail. Their expertise in the field of cartography is evident in the 'Carte geologuique des Alpes'. The map is a testament to their skill and dedication, providing a wealth of information on the geology of the Alps, as well as the political and physical landscape of the countries that the mountain range traverses. This map is not just a tool for understanding the geography of the Alpine region, but also a work of art that reflects the publisher's passion for cartography.

Switzerland:

• Bern, the capital city
• Zurich, the largest city
• Swiss National Park, the oldest national park in the Alps
• Matterhorn, one of the highest peaks in the Alps
• The Great Aletsch Glacier, the largest glacier in the Alps

Austria:

• Vienna, the capital city
• Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart
• Hohe Tauern National Park, the largest national park in Central Europe
• Grossglockner, the highest mountain in Austria
• The end of World War I and the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1918

France:

• Chamonix, a popular ski resort and the site of the first Winter Olympics in 1924
• Grenoble, known as the 'Capital of the Alps'
• Vanoise National Park, France's first national park
• Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps
• The Treaty of Versailles in 1919, which ended the state of war between Germany and the Allied Powers

Italy:

• Turin, the first capital of modern Italy
• Aosta, a city rich in Roman history
• Stelvio National Park, the largest national park in Italy
• The Dolomites, a mountain range listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• The rise of Benito Mussolini and the National Fascist Party in 1919

Germany:

• Munich, the capital of Bavaria
• Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a popular mountain resort
• Berchtesgaden National Park, located in the Bavarian Alps
• Zugspitze, the highest peak in Germany
• The establishment of the Weimar Republic in 1919

Slovenia:

• Ljubljana, the capital city
• Triglav National Park, the only national park in Slovenia
• Triglav, the highest peak in Slovenia
• The emergence of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes in 1918

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.

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.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and customised products take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes 1 or 2 days.

Please note that very large framed orders usually take longer to make and deliver. 

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 and artwork in 23 countries around the world. This means your order will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and ensures that it won't be damaged during delivery. You'll never pay customs or import duty, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps and art prints are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all orders within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks, mugs and tote bags) 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).

Next Day delivery is also available in some countries (US, UK, Singapore, UAE) but please try to order early in the day so that we can get it sent out on time.

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, 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.

Alcune delle mie vecchie mappe sono ora disponibili come tele incorniciate. Per favore contattami se desideri ordinare una dimensione che non è disponibile nel mio negozio.

Le vecchie mappe su tela sono un'alternativa interessante alle mappe incorniciate in modo convenzionale. A seconda del tuo gusto personale e dell'arredamento della stanza, le mappe su tela possono "risaltare" un po' di più rispetto a una mappa incorniciata.

Scopri di più sulle mie mappe su tela incorniciate.

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.

Se non sei soddisfatto del tuo ordine per qualsiasi motivo, contattami per un rimborso senza problemi. Si prega di consultare la nostra politica di reso e rimborso per ulteriori informazioni.

Sono molto sicuro che ti piacerà la tua mappa restaurata o la stampa d'arte. Lo faccio dal 1984. Sono un venditore Etsy a 5 stelle. Ho venduto decine di migliaia di mappe e stampe d'arte e ho oltre 5.000 recensioni reali a 5 stelle.

Utilizzo un processo unico per restaurare mappe e opere d'arte che richiede molto tempo e lavoro. Trovare le mappe e le illustrazioni originali può richiedere mesi. Utilizzo tecnologia all'avanguardia e incredibilmente costosa per scannerizzare e restaurarle. Di conseguenza, garantisco che le mie mappe e stampe d'arte siano superiori alle altre - ecco perché posso offrire un rimborso senza problemi.

Quasi tutte le mie mappe e stampe d'arte sembrano fantastiche a grandi dimensioni (200 cm, 6,5 piedi+) e posso anche incorniciarle e consegnarle a te, tramite un corriere speciale per oggetti di grandi dimensioni. Contattami per discutere delle tue esigenze specifiche.