What Was the First Map of the World? Discovering the Babylonian World Map

Learn about the first map of the world—the Babylonian World Map from the 6th century BCE—and what it reveals about early geography.

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The first map of the world is believed to be the Babylonian World Map, created around the 6th century BCE. This ancient clay tablet depicts a simplified layout of the known world at that time, centering on Babylon. It includes regions like Assyria and Elam, surrounded by a 'bitter river' believed to represent the ocean. Such historical artifacts provide invaluable insights into early human understanding of geography.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is considered the oldest world map? The Babylonian World Map, created around the 6th century BCE, is considered the oldest known map depicting the world.
  2. What regions are shown on the Babylonian World Map? The map centers on Babylon and includes regions such as Assyria and Elam, surrounded by a representation of the ocean called the 'bitter river.'
  3. Why is the Babylonian World Map significant? It provides invaluable insights into how early civilizations understood geography and conceived the layout of the world.

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