Rare Old Military Map of the 1541 Siege of Algiers by Pagano: Algiers, Mandrachio, Castel Vechio, Naval Strategy, Ottoman Empire

Discover a rare gem from the annals of history with "Il Vero Ritrato Dela Cita De Algeri," a captivating woodcut map crafted by the esteemed Venetian engraver Matteo Pagano in 1542. This exquisite piece captures the essence of the 1541 Siege of Algiers, a pivotal moment when Charles V of the Holy Roman Empire attempted to wrest control of Algiers from the Ottoman Empire. Pagano's map offers a detailed portrayal of the city, surrounded by formidable fortifications and teeming with the vibrancy of a bustling port. The map's intricate design invites you to explore the rich tapestry of history woven into its very fabric.

The map's historical significance is unparalleled, as it provides a window into the military strategies and challenges faced during the siege. The depiction of Algiers, with its fortified walls and strategic military camps, illustrates the intense preparations and maneuvers undertaken by Charles V's forces. The presence of ships in the harbor highlights the naval aspect of the campaign, while the surrounding terrain and natural features add depth to the narrative of this historic event. This map is not just a geographical representation but a storytelling masterpiece that captures the drama and complexity of 16th-century warfare.

Pagano's artistic prowess is evident in the map's meticulous details and decorative elements. The labels, such as "Mandrachio" and "Castel Vechio," guide the viewer through the city's landscape, while the depiction of the Mediterranean Sea ("Mare Me Diteranevm") anchors the scene in its geographical context. The artistic embellishments, including banners and borders, enhance the map's visual appeal, making it a true work of art. This map is a testament to Pagano's skill and creativity, offering a glimpse into the world of Renaissance cartography.

Beyond its aesthetic allure, this map serves as a historical document, chronicling the failed expedition of Charles V against the formidable Ottoman forces. The siege, disrupted by a fierce storm, is vividly illustrated, with soldiers and artillery poised around the city. This moment in history, marked by ambition and adversity, is captured with precision and artistry, making the map an invaluable resource for historians and collectors alike. It stands as a reminder of the turbulent power struggles that shaped the Mediterranean region.

Owning this map is akin to possessing a piece of history, a tangible connection to a bygone era of exploration and conquest. Its rarity and provenance, having been part of prestigious collections, further enhance its allure. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a history enthusiast, "Il Vero Ritrato Dela Cita De Algeri" offers a unique opportunity to delve into the past and appreciate the artistry and historical significance of Matteo Pagano's work. This map is not just a visual delight but a gateway to understanding the complex narratives of the 16th century.

Places on this map

• Algiers: The main city depicted in the map.
• Mandrachio: A part of the harbor area.
• Castel Vechio: A significant landmark or fortification.
• Mare Me Diteranevm: The Mediterranean Sea.
• Pianura: The plain area surrounding the city.
• Zardini: Possibly gardens or agricultural areas.
• Morcheca: A labeled area within or near the city.
• Port de acqua dolce: Freshwater port or source.

Notable Features & Landmarks

• The city of Algiers surrounded by walls and fortifications.
• Depiction of ships in the harbor, indicating the naval aspect of the siege.
• Soldiers and military camps around the city.
• Various labeled landmarks such as "Mandrachio" and "Castel Vechio."
• The Mediterranean Sea ("Mare Me Diteranevm") shown at the bottom of the map.
• Mountains and natural terrain surrounding Algiers.
• Representation of the siege with soldiers and artillery.
• The depiction of the storm that disrupted the siege.
• Artistic elements such as banners and decorative borders.

Historical and design context

• Name of the map: Il Vero Ritrato Dela Cita De Algeri
• Date of creation: Likely 1542, following the 1541 Siege of Algiers.
• Mapmaker/Publisher: Matteo Pagano, a master engraver from Venice.
• Historical themes: The map depicts the 1541 Siege of Algiers, an unsuccessful attempt by Charles V of the Holy Roman Empire to capture Algiers from the Ottoman Empire.
• Design/Style: A woodcut map, characterized by its detailed depiction of the city and surrounding areas, including military positions and ships.
• Historical significance: This map provides insight into the military strategies and city layout during a significant historical event involving major European and Ottoman powers.

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 70in (180cm). 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.

My maps are extremely high quality reproductions of original maps.

I source original, rare maps from libraries, auction houses and private collections around the world, restore them at my London workshop, and then use specialist giclée inks and printers to create beautiful maps that look even better than the original.

My maps are printed on acid-free archival matte (not glossy) paper that feels very high quality and almost like card. In technical terms the paper weight/thickness is 10mil/200gsm. It's perfect for framing.

I print with Epson ultrachrome giclée UV fade resistant pigment inks - some of the best inks you can find.

I can also make maps on canvas, cotton rag and other exotic materials.

Learn more about The Unique Maps Co.

Map personalisation

If you're looking for the perfect anniversary or housewarming gift, I can personalise your map to make it truly unique. For example, I can add a short message, or highlight an important location, or add your family's coat of arms.

The options are almost infinite. Please see my map personalisation page for some wonderful examples of what's possible.

To order a personalised map, select "personalise your map" before adding it to your basket.

Get in touch if you're looking for more complex customisations and personalisations.

Map ageing

I have been asked hundreds of times over the years by customers if they could buy a map that looks even older.

Well, now you can, by selecting Aged before you add a map to your basket.

All the product photos you see on this page show the map in its Original form. This is what the map looks like today.

If you select Aged, I will age your map by hand, using a special and unique process developed through years of studying old maps, talking to researchers to understand the chemistry of aging paper, and of course... lots of practice!

If you're unsure, stick to the Original colour of the map. If you want something a bit darker and older looking, go for Aged.

See some amazing examples of Aged maps.

If you are not happy with your unique map for any reason, contact me for a no-quibble refund.

I am very confident you will like your old map. I have been doing this since 1984. I'm a 5-star Etsy seller. I have sold tens of thousands of maps and have over 4,000 real 5-star reviews.

I use a unique process to restore my maps that is massively time consuming and labour intensive. Hunting down the original maps can take months. I use state of the art and eye-wateringly expensive technology to scan and restore the maps. As a result, I guarantee my maps are a cut above the rest - that's why I can offer a no-quibble refund.

Almost all of my maps look amazing at large sizes (200cm, 6.5ft+) and I can frame and deliver them to you as well, via special oversized courier. Contact me to discuss your specific needs.