Maps in Context restores the lost links between historic maps and their sources

Maps in Context, established by the Explokart research group at the University of Amsterdam, restores the missing links between historical maps, atlases and globes and textual sources that explain them, such as catalogues and letters. Scholars and curators often struggle to study these objects once they are scattered across collections, so the project’s goal is to make their shared context accessible again in one place. The core feature is a searchable web database, which efficiently links historical maps with their contextual information. Data entry follows two tracks: first, information about maps, makers and practices; then, links to the specific objects, all managed through a CMS. This workflow allows users to quickly access rich, interconnected map data instead of piecing it together from separate catalogues and archives. Maps in Context aligns with Nazka Mapps' vision of using digital platforms to make large, fragmented datasets easy to explore. By centralizing this cultural heritage, we deliver a quality product that enhances the societal value of historical maps.