Mapping the Roman World

The ancient Roman world map, Orbis Terrarum designed by Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa was a remarkable attempt to depict the known world of the Roman Empire and beyond.

Created in the 1st century BCE, Agrippa’s map aimed to consolidate the geographical knowledge of the Roman world into a single vision. Based on Roman roads, trade routes, and military explorations, it illustrated important cities, distances, and regions across the empire. Displayed publicly in Rome, the map reflected the Roman belief that knowledge and geography were essential to understanding the world around them.

A WORLD CONNECTED BY ROME

Agrippa’s map was revolutionary for its time because it attempted to show not only the Roman Empire itself, but also distant lands beyond its borders. At the center stood the Mediterranean — known to the Romans as Mare Nostrum, meaning “Our Sea” — revealing the Mediterranean-focused worldview that shaped Roman politics, trade, and expansion.

The map reflected how the Romans perceived their place in the world: connected through roads, exploration, and shared knowledge. Though the original map has been lost to history, descriptions by historians suggest it became an important influence on later cartography throughout the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

THE LEGACY OF THE ORBIS MAP

The legacy of Agrippa’s map extends beyond its immediate impact on geography and exploration. It serves as an early example of the power of information dissemination and the role of maps in shaping our understanding of the world.

Though the original map has not survived, its descriptions and influence have made it a subject of study for historians and geographers. It is a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of the Roman people, representing their desire to understand and document the world around them.

On the back print of the hoodie, an approximate depiction of Agrippa's map is shown. With a closer look, one can recognise the three continents—Asia (above), Europe (bottom left), and Africa (bottom right). The existence of other continents was yet unknown to the Romans. Just as Agrippa's map was a blend of exploration, knowledge, and power, our clothing aims to evoke a sense of adventure, discovery, and connectivity in those who wear it.
Orbis Terrarum - Romani Culturewear
Orbis Terrarum - Romani Culturewear
Orbis Hoodie - Romani Culturewear
Orbis Hoodie

Orbis Hoodie
€109,99 EUR
€109,99 EUR
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