Question

Explain the importance of Map and Portolans in maritime history.

Answer 1

Portolan or portulan charts are ancient nautical charts, first made in the 13th century in the Mediterranean basin and later expanded to include other regions, which have been noted for their high cartographic accuracy.[1] The word portolan comes from the Italian portulano, meaning "related to ports or harbors", and which since at least the 17th century designates "a collection of sailing directions".[2]