Maps, atlases and globes

Looking for maps or atlases? At the Allard Pierson special collections of the UvA you will find one of the largest map collection in the world. It contains 135,000 map sheets and 4,500 atlases, including hundreds of rare and unique ones. You can also find modern maps, (travel) books, journals, photographs etc on the topic. 

How do I find maps?

The easiest way to start is to have a look in our CataloguePlus:

• Go to CataloguePlus.
• Choose the Advanced Search option.
• Type in keywords (for instance: "Amsterdam" AND "1600").
• Select the Material Type: Maps
• Click on the SEARCH button.

The Allard Pierson image database has a growing collection of online maps.

Ask our specialist

It is also possible to visit the library at the Allard Pierson or make an appointment with our map collection specialist: Reinder Storm. He has published articles and books on the topic, like: the Universe of Amsterdam which appeared in Dutch and English. His latest publication with Marieke van Delft was one of the best selling Dutch history books of 2019: De geschiedenis van Nederland in 100 oude kaarten. 

So if you are looking for advise or want to view old maps, you can always visit the Allard Pierson special collections department at the Oude Turfmarkt. 

Quick Links

• Allard Pierson Special Collections Library
• Collection Cartography
• Image database Allard Pierson 
• Contact Reinder Storm