World History: Treasures of the world cartography on show in St. Petersburg

On March 16th 2012 the National Library of Russia, Main Building (St. Petersburg) is staging a unique exhibit “Atlas of the World Cartography”, which celebrates 500th birth anniversary of a brilliant Dutch cartographer Gerardus Mercator.

This is the first time world cartography treasures – original maps and atlases of Gerardus Mercator – the founder of academic cartography are going on display.

Mercator’s collection kept by the National Library of Russia is the largest in Russia. On show are over ten works completed by Mercator, including his historical study – “Chronology” (1569). Originals will be available one day only, after that they will be replaced by facsimiles.

Works of the eminent geographer crown the epoch of the Age of Discovery (Age of Exploration). Discoveries of Columbus, Vasco da Gama, Magellan would not have changed the human idea of the world if they had been not represented as a part of new geography. Mercator brought together all geographical knowledge accumulated throughout Europe and created more accurate maps.

Gerardus Mercator was more than just a cartographer. He also distinguished himself as a calligrapher, engraver and inventor of devices. No less impressive is his keen interest in mathematics, astronomy, cosmography, terrestrial magnetism, history, philosophy and theology.