Geographic atlases are an ordered collection of maps created using a single program as a single publication. The maps in the atlas are thematically related, coordinated with each other, and complement each other. They are made in a single system of projections and scales. Atlases are characterized by the use of common principles of generalization, the same systems of conventional symbols, fonts, and coordinated graphic and color solutions. Atlases are usually published in the form of books or albums. In addition to maps, they contain explanatory texts, reference information, graphics, and photographs that complement the content.
Classification of geographical maps and atlases. What is contained in a geographical atlas
Geographic atlases are classified according to several criteria: spatial coverage, content, purpose, format, and method of use .
1. Spatial coverage.
Depending on the geographical scale, atlases are divided into:
- Atlases of the world or its individual parts.
- Atlases of continents or their groups (for example, the Antarctic Atlas ).
- Regional atlases of large areas such as the Middle East .
- Atlases of states or their groups (for example, Atlas of Ukraine ).
- Local atlases covering regions ( Atlas of Vinnytsia Region ) or cities ( Atlas of Kyiv ).
2. Contents.
Geographical maps are divided into:
- General geographic - contain physical and political-administrative maps.
- Thematic – dedicated to specific topics, such as natural (physical-geographical) or socio-economic phenomena.
- Comprehensive – combine general geographic maps with thematic maps.
3. Purpose.
Depending on the purpose of use, atlases are:
- Scientific and reference collections - collections that reflect natural and socio-economic phenomena for research and practical use.
- Educational - created for educational needs in schools and higher education institutions.
- For wide use - reference books that help a wide audience gain general knowledge about natural and social phenomena.
- Local history - describes local historical, geographical and cultural features.
- Marine navigational and geographical – detail the seabed relief, currents, navigational conditions, and equipment.
- Road maps – display road maps and transport routes.
- Military – used to analyze the political, physical, military geography and economy of regions.
4. Format and method of use
Atlases can be:
- Desktop – large format for detailed consideration.
- Medium format – convenient for wide use.
- Pocket – compact for mobile use.
As you can see, different atlases are needed for different needs, but for some purposes two or more types will be necessary.
Advantages of using geographical atlases
Geographical atlases will help to systematize information not only about natural, but also socio-economic phenomena, as they often reflect population density, natural conditions, the presence of minerals in the region, etc. Thanks to detailed maps and their mutual consistency, atlases allow a deeper understanding of the relationships between geographical objects, as well as the characteristics of different regions. For example, they clearly demonstrate how natural conditions affect economic activity or population distribution.
Furthermore, atlases can be adapted for different needs: teaching in schools, professional research or even travel. Thanks to the variety of formats, they provide accurate information for any use case.
What are atlases ? How to choose a geographical atlas : practical advice
Choosing an atlas for your needs can be a bit difficult, because, as we mentioned above, they all differ somewhat in terms of information content. Therefore, we have prepared for you a small list of the most popular publications that will be a good choice for everyone, and noted what is contained in the geographical atlases from the list.
1. “Geographical Atlas of the World” .
This is a modern reference cartographic publication that contains up to 100 political and physical maps of the world, as well as political maps of individual countries and their groups. Political and administrative maps of the regions of Ukraine are presented separately. Sections devoted to political and political and geographical maps are supplemented with reference blocks with flags and up-to-date information about countries.
2. “Atlas of the History of Ukraine” .
The atlas covers key stages of Ukrainian history from ancient times to the present day. The publication presents a variety of maps: archaeological, historical-economic, cultural and demographic. Each thematic block consists of three elements: maps, comments explaining the spatial localization of historical events, and illustrative material.
3. “Atlas of Reproductions. Manuscript Maps of the 16th-19th Centuries” .
This publication is the first attempt to summarize information about early maps and their authors - county topographers and cartographic engineers . Many of the maps presented in the atlas are published for the first time. The publication will become a valuable source for historians, geographers, local historians, art history researchers, as well as for everyone interested in the past of Ukrainian lands.
4. “Compact Atlas of the World” .
The atlas covers a large amount of up-to-date background information. Brief information about each continent is provided at the beginning of the corresponding section, and the main background material is collected in the “World in Figures” section. All information in the atlas is updated according to the latest data.
5. “Small Atlas of the World” .
The compact edition will be useful to pupils, students, teachers, tourists and everyone who is fond of geography. The atlas contains overview physical and political maps of the world and continents, physical maps of the oceans, as well as a map of time zones. In addition, it contains statistical and cartographic data on the countries of the world and information on outstanding geographical objects: mountains, rivers, islands, deserts, seas and waterfalls.
We wish you a pleasant and interesting study of the world around you with the indicated atlases from the publishing house “Kartograph”. You can buy these and other atlases on the website tyra.com.ua, where you will find high-quality maps and posters , as well as other printed products and favorable prices for the entire range.