Old Geological Map of Egypt, 1910: Nile, Red Sea, Cairo, Alexandria, Suez
The “Geological Map of Egypt,” crafted by the esteemed Egyptian Survey Department in 1910, stands as a testament to early 20th-century cartographic excellence. This map was the first of its kind, offering a vivid portrayal of Egypt’s geological landscape through a meticulously designed color-coded system. Each hue represents a distinct geological period, from the pliocene to basalt formations, inviting the viewer to explore the ancient stories embedded in the earth’s crust. Labeled in English, this map served as a crucial tool for researchers and geologists of the time, eager to uncover the secrets of Egypt’s terrain.
The Egyptian Survey Department, renowned for its precision and dedication, played a pivotal role in mapping Egypt’s diverse landscapes. Their work provided invaluable insights into the country’s geography and geology, aiding in resource exploration and scientific research. This map not only reflects their technical prowess but also their commitment to advancing the understanding of Egypt’s natural history. It stands as a historical artifact, embodying the spirit of exploration and discovery that characterized the early 1900s.
Dominating the map is the majestic Nile River, a lifeline snaking through the arid lands of Egypt. The map captures the river’s journey from the bustling city of Cairo to the ancient wonders of Luxor and Aswan. Alongside the Nile, the map highlights significant bodies of water, such as the Gulf of Suez and the Red Sea, which have played vital roles in Egypt’s history and trade. These features not only define the country’s geography but also its cultural and economic development over millennia.
The map’s detailed depiction of borders, including the delineation between Egypt and Sudan, provides a glimpse into the geopolitical landscape of the time. While the map focuses on geological formations, it subtly hints at the historical and political narratives that have shaped the region. This context enriches the map’s value, offering a layered understanding of the forces that have influenced Egypt’s evolution as a nation.
From the bustling streets of Alexandria to the serene expanses of the desert, the map captures the diverse urban and rural landscapes of Egypt. Cities like Suez, Port Said, and Assiut are marked, each with its unique history and contribution to the country’s identity. This map is more than a scientific document; it is a window into the past, a canvas where the stories of ancient civilizations and natural phenomena converge, inviting the viewer to embark on a journey through time and space.
Cities and towns on this map
- Cairo
- Alexandria
- Suez
- Port Said
- Aswan
- Luxor
- Assiut
- Minya
- Sohag
- Qena
- Ismailia
- Wadi Halfa
Notable Features & Landmarks
- Bodies of water:
- Nile River
- Gulf of Suez
- Red Sea
- Borders:
- Border between Egypt and Sudan
- Other notable features:
- Color-coded geological formations
Historical and design context
- This is a colorful geological map of Egypt, the first of its kind.
- Includes an index for each of the colors, indicating different geological periods.
- The map is labeled in English.
- Created by the Egyptian Survey Department in 1910.
- Represents an early effort to systematically document the geological composition of Egypt.
- An important tool for geologists and researchers in the early 20th century.
Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.
This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 50in (125cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
Please note: the labels on this map are hard to read if you order a map that is 16in (40cm) or smaller. The map is still very attractive, but if you would like to read the map easily, please buy a larger size.
The model in the listing images is holding the 16x16in (40x40cm) version of this map.
The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.
If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.
Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.
This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father’s Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.
This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you’d like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.
