Civitates Orbis Terrarum 1576

Civitates Orbis Terrarum 1576 – The World of Cities in the Bloom of the Renaissance

Embark on a journey through space and time – back to the most magnificent cities of the world as they shone in the 16th century! The Civitates Orbis Terrarum, created by Georg Braun and Frans Hogenberg, is one of the most fascinating and beautiful works of the Renaissance – a visually stunning homage to the life, culture, and architecture of past centuries.

Between 1572 and 1618, this monumental six-volume work was created, uniting for the first time the most significant cities of Europe, Asia, Africa, and the New World in splendid, vividly colored copper engravings. The 1576 edition features 81 masterful city views on 59 double-sided plates – including Jerusalem, Damascus, Wittenberg, Limburg, Görlitz, and Colmar.

Each view is a small universe: it not only depicts streets, churches, and towers but also the vibrant life of the people – farmers at work, fishermen by the river, boats, carts, traditional costumes, and coats of arms. These detailed scenes make the Civitates Orbis Terrarum a living history book, showcasing the world as it was – before the devastations of the Thirty Years' War.

With its unparalleled interplay of art, knowledge, and the spirit of exploration, this work is regarded as the oldest and most significant city book in the world. It is a testament to the curiosity and beauty of the Renaissance – and a window into the past that continues to inspire awe today.

An indispensable masterpiece for art lovers, collectors, and anyone who appreciates the magic of historical maps, cultural history, and fine book craftsmanship.