Rare Old Map of Lake and Canton of Geneva by Hondius, 1606: Lausanne, The Alps, Lake Geneva, Rhone River

Lacus Lemanus: A Cartographic Masterpiece from the Heart of the Reformation

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history with the Lacus Lemanus, a rare and exquisite map that transports you to the Lake Geneva region during the pivotal era of the Protestant Reformation. Crafted with meticulous detail by the renowned Flemish cartographer Jodocus Hondius in 1606, this map is not only a navigational tool but a tribute to the intellectual and spiritual revolution that reshaped Europe.

A Tribute to Reformation Leaders

At the heart of this map lies a unique homage to the luminaries of the Protestant Reformation. Portraits of John Calvin, William Farel, Pierre Viret, Theodore Beza, and Simon Goulart adorn its surface, each a testament to the enduring impact of their work and faith. These figures, instrumental in the Reformation's spread through Geneva and beyond, are immortalized in this first state of the map, a feature exclusive to this edition.

An Artistic and Geographic Marvel

Oriented unconventionally with southeast at the top, the Lacus Lemanus offers a comprehensive view of the Lake Geneva region, from the Rhone River to the city of Geneva itself. This detailed political and physical map reveals the intricate landscape of the Canton of Geneva, showcasing not only the majestic Lake Geneva but also the surrounding Alps and Jura Mountains in stunning detail.

Landmarks of historical and cultural significance dot the map, from the strategic fortresses and serene vineyards to the iconic Chateau Chillon. The map's artistry extends to the depiction of sailing ships navigating the lake and a prominent compass rose, guiding viewers through this historical landscape.

A Snapshot of Early Modern Cartography

Jodocus Hondius, a master of his craft, brings the Lake Geneva region to life with unparalleled precision and beauty. The Mercator projection used preserves the fidelity of shapes across this varied terrain, making it a valuable tool for understanding the geographical and political landscape of the time.

The inclusion of an unfilled cartouche hints at the map's evolving nature, inviting viewers to ponder the untold stories and developments that might have been captured in subsequent editions. Yet, it is this first state, with its dedication to the figures of the Reformation and its rich depiction of the region, that remains a coveted piece for collectors and historians alike.

A Historical Document of Unmatched Value

The Lacus Lemanus is more than a map; it is a window into the past, offering insights into the religious, cultural, and geographical shifts of the early 17th century. Its publication during the Protestant Reformation, a time of profound change and conflict, adds layers of significance to its already impressive details.

This map is a treasure for those who appreciate the art of cartography, the history of the Reformation, or the timeless beauty of the Lake Geneva region. It invites exploration and contemplation, promising to be a centerpiece of any collection.

Own a piece of history with the Lacus Lemanus, a testament to the enduring power of faith, the artistry of cartography, and the rich tapestry of human history that continues to fascinate and inspire.

Cities and towns on this map

• Geneva (198,000)
• Lausanne (138,000)
• Vevey (19,000)
• Nyon (20,000)
• Morges (16,000)
• Gland (13,000)
• Rolle (6,000)
• Aubonne (3,000)
• Coppet (3,000)
• Versoix (13,000)
• Carouge (22,000)
• Lancy (31,000)
• Onex (19,000)
• Vernier (34,000)
• Meyrin (24,000)
• Satigny (4,000)
• Chêne-Bougeries (11,000)
• Chêne-Bourg (8,000)
• Thônex (14,000)
• Le Grand-Saconnex (13,000)
• Bellevue (6,000)
• Collonge-Bellerive (7,000)
• Corsier (2,000)
• Anières (3,000)
• Hermance (1,000)
• Céligny (700)
• Crans-près-Céligny (2,000)
• Eysins (1,000)
• Borex (2,000)
• Prangins (4,000)
• Begnins (5,000)
• Luins (500)
• Bursins (1,000)
• Genolier (2,000)
• Givrins (1,000)
• Longirod (500)
• Marchissy (400)
• Mollens (300)
• Mont-sur-Rolle (2,000)
• Perroy (3,000)
• Saint-Cergue (3,000)
• Saint-George (1,000)
• Saint-Prex (5,000)
• Trélex (1,000)
• Vich (1,000)
• Vinzel (200)
• Yens (1,000)
• Allaman (500)
• Arzier-Le Muids (500)
• Bassins (1,000)
• Bière (1,000)
• Bougy-Villars (2,000)
• Chavannes-des-Bois (1,000)
• Chavannes-le-Veyron (1,000)
• Chevilly (300)
• Coinsins (600)
• Commugny (1,000)
• Crans (700)
• Crassier (1,000)
• Cuarnens (400)
• Daillens (1,000)
• Denges (2,000)
• Divonne-les-Bains (10,000)
• Echandens (1,000)
• Echichens (1,000)
• Essertines-sur-Rolle (600)
• Essertines-sur-Yverdon (1,000)
• Etoy (3,000)
• Féchy (1,000)
• Ferney-Voltaire (10,000)
• Gimel (2,000)
• Gollion (1,000)
• Grancy (400)
• Grens (400)
• La Rippe (1,000)
• La Sarraz (2,000)
• L'Isle (1,000)
• Lonay (2,000)
• Lutry (10,000)
• Mauraz (1,000)
• Mies (2,000)

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Lake Geneva
• The Rhone River
• The Alps
• The Jura Mountains
• The cities of Geneva, Lausanne, and Bern
• The cantons of Vaud, Geneva, and Bern
• The dioceses of Geneva, Lausanne, and Sion
• The bailiwicks of Morges, Nyon, and Vevey
• The seigniories of Aubonne, Coppet, and Rolle
• The glaciers of the Rhone Glacier and the Aletsch Glacier
• The peaks of the Matterhorn and the Jungfrau
• The forests of the Jura Mountains and the Alps
• The vineyards of Lavaux
• The castles of Chillon and Gruyères
• The abbeys of St. Maurice and St. Gingolph
• The Roman roads of the Via Augusta and the Via Mala
• The battle sites of the Battle of Granson and the Battle of Morat

Historical and design context

• First state of the map, published in 1606 by Jodocus Hondius.
• Includes five portraits of Calvin, Farellus, Viretus, Beza, and Goulartius, honoring major figures of the Protestant Reformation.
• Oriented with southeast at the top, offering a detailed view of the Lake Geneva region.
• Features a large compass rose in the center of the lake.
• Published during the Protestant Reformation, a religious movement that sought to reform the Catholic Church.
• A detailed political and physical map drawn in a Mercator projection.
• A valuable historical document that provides a snapshot of the Lake Geneva region during the Protestant Reformation.

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 90in (230cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45x60cm) 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.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.