What were the main purposes of maps in the Middle Ages?

In the Middle Ages, maps served several main purposes:

1. Navigation and Travel: One of the primary purposes of maps during this period was to aid in navigation and travel. Maps were used by sailors, explorers, and merchants to plan and navigate their journeys, especially across the seas. They provided information about coastlines, ports, rivers, and other geographical features, helping travelers to determine their routes and estimate distances.

2. Military and Defense: Maps were also crucial for military purposes during the Middle Ages. They were used to strategize and plan military campaigns, identify fortifications, and understand the terrain of battlefields. Maps helped commanders to assess the strengths and weaknesses of their enemies and make informed decisions during conflicts.

3. Land Ownership and Administration: Maps played a significant role in documenting and managing land ownership and administration. Feudal lords and monarchs used maps to delineate their territories, mark boundaries, and keep records of their lands. These maps were essential for resolving disputes, collecting taxes, and maintaining control over the feudal system.

4. Religious and Pilgrimage Purposes: Maps were used by religious pilgrims to navigate their journeys to holy sites and shrines. These maps, known as itineraries or pilgrimage maps, provided directions, landmarks, and information about the religious significance of various locations. They helped pilgrims plan their routes and ensured they reached their destinations safely.

5. Symbolic and Decorative Purposes: Maps in the Middle Ages were often highly decorative and symbolic. They were used as status symbols by the wealthy and powerful, showcasing their knowledge and influence. These maps were adorned with intricate illustrations, mythical creatures, and religious symbols, reflecting the beliefs and values of the time.

Overall, maps in the Middle Ages served practical, administrative, military, religious, and symbolic purposes, playing a crucial role in understanding and navigating the world during that period.