Old Birdseye Map of Cologne by Braun, 1572: Cologne Cathedral, Rhine River, Altstadt, Deutz, Heumarkt

Embark on a journey through time with the exquisite "Colonia Agrippina" map, a masterpiece crafted by the renowned German mapmaker Georg Braun in 1572. This luxurious depiction not only serves as a gateway to the historic city of Cologne but also stands as a testament to the cartographic and artistic prowess of the Late Renaissance period. Through Braun's meticulous bird's-eye view, one can explore the intricate layout of Cologne, from its bustling streets to the majestic Rhine River that elegantly borders the city. The map's detailed portrayal of Cologne's neighborhoods, such as the Altstadt (Old Town) and Neustadt (New Town), along with its iconic landmarks like the towering Cologne Cathedral, invites admirers into a vivid narrative of the city's architectural and urban splendor.

Georg Braun, a luminary in the realm of cartography, has ingeniously encapsulated the essence of Cologne during a time of economic and cultural renaissance. The map not only highlights the city's significant structures and districts but also delves into its rich historical tapestry through elaborately designed cartouches and commentaries. These elements narrate Cologne's evolution from a Roman fortress to a pivotal hub of trade and ecclesiastical authority, emphasizing its role in the Hanseatic League and the Holy Roman Empire. The inclusion of the Cologne exchange and the city's trading ties with England underscore its prominence as a center of commerce and academia in the 16th century.

Braun's "Colonia Agrippina" is a marvel of cartographic design, employing a realistic style that brings to life the city's vast expanse and its defining features. The map's bird's-eye view not only showcases the architectural grandeur of landmarks such as the Cologne Cathedral and the town hall but also provides a glimpse into the daily life of its inhabitants through the detailed depiction of streets and buildings. The map's elaborate borders and cartouches, adorned with historical and geographical narratives, enhance its aesthetic appeal, making it a coveted piece for collectors and enthusiasts of historical maps.

The map's historical significance is further enriched by its detailed representation of Cologne's natural and urban landscapes. Parks like the Stadtgarten (City Garden) and the Rheinpark (Rhine Park) are meticulously labeled, offering a glimpse into the city's green spaces that provided respite and recreation to its residents. The Rhine River, a lifeline for Cologne, is prominently featured, highlighting its importance in the city's trade and transportation. The map also captures the vibrant neighborhoods and streets, such as the Heumarkt and S. Martin, which were centers of social and economic activity, reflecting the city's thriving community life.

In conclusion, Georg Braun's "Colonia Agrippina" is not merely a map but a historical artifact that captures the soul of Cologne in the 16th century. Its artistic detail, combined with the depth of historical insight, makes it an unparalleled representation of the city's architectural, political, and spiritual landscape. For those who cherish the beauty of cartography and the rich tapestry of history, this map is a treasure, offering a window into the past and inviting viewers to explore the storied streets and landmarks of Cologne as they were over four centuries ago.

Streets and roads on this map

• Auf dem Rhein
• Bach
• Die Apostelen
• Die Heumarkt
• Die Marckt
• Die Pfortz
• Die Rhein
• Die Vrowe brudern
• Gereons
• Heumarkt
• Hoch
• In der Bruck
• In der Marckt
• In dem Rhein
• Juden
• Kleingasse
• Marckt
• Neugasse
• Niederich
• Ob dem Rhein
• Oben Marckt
• Perlengraben
• Pfortz
• Rhein
• Rhie
• S. Cunibertus
• S. Gereon
• S. Maria im Capitol
• S. Martin
• S. Pantaleon
• S. Peter
• S. Severin
• Vischmarckt
• Weyer

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Neighbourhoods:
  • Altstadt (Old Town)
  • Neustadt (New Town)
  • Severinsviertel
  • Rheinauhafen
  • Deutz
• Parks:
  • Stadtgarten (City Garden)
  • Volksgarten (People's Garden)
  • Rheinpark (Rhine Park)
  • Forstbotanischer Garten (Forest Botanical Garden)
  • Grüngürtel (Green Belt)
• Other notable features:
  • Rhein (Rhine River)
  • Aachener Weiher (Aachen Pond)
  • Vorgebirge (Vorgebirge Hills)
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • Hohenzollern Bridge
  • Cologne Triangle
  • MediaPark

Historical and design context

• Map context:
  • Title: Colonia Agrippina
  • Date: 1572
  • Mapmaker/Publisher: Georg Braun
  • Background: Braun was a German mapmaker and publisher known for his series of city maps in the Civitates Orbis Terrarum, one of the first modern atlases.
  • Topics and themes: The map shows Cologne, Germany, in the 16th century, including streets, buildings, and landmarks, with historical commentary on the city's history and significance.
  • Countries and regions shown: Cologne, Germany, the Rhine River, and the surrounding countryside.
  • Design and style: A bird's-eye view in a realistic style with elaborate borders and cartouches.
  • Historical significance: A detailed snapshot of 16th-century Cologne, showcasing the skill and artistry of Georg Braun.

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 70in (180cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45x60cm) 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.

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.