Ancient Caveri map (Caverio Planisphere), 1504

The Caverio Map, also known as the Caveri Map or Caverio Planisphere, is a remarkable early 16th-century world map created around 1504–1505. It is attributed to the Genoese cartographer Nicolay de Caverio and is currently preserved in the Bibliothèque Nationale de France in Paris. The map is a hand-drawn portolan chart on parchment, measuring approximately 2.25 by 1.15 meters, and represents one of the most detailed depictions of the world known to Europeans at the time.

The Caverio Map is believed to be based largely on Portuguese sources, particularly the now-lost original map that inspired the Cantino Planisphere (1502). However, it includes significant enhancements and is more refined in its representation of the newly discovered lands in the New World. It vividly portrays the Atlantic coasts of North and South America, including a surprisingly accurate east coast of South America and a curved northeastern coast of North America, though the interior remains speculative and mythical.

One of the most intriguing features of the Caverio Map is its depiction of parts of North America, including what appear to be regions of modern-day Canada and the United States, even before many of these areas were fully explored by Europeans. The map does not show the Pacific Ocean, which had not yet been reached by European explorers.

Decoratively rich, the map includes compass roses, sailing routes, port names, and illustrations of indigenous peoples, exotic animals, and royal banners, blending practical navigation with artistic flair. It reflects both Portuguese and Spanish discoveries and serves as an important precursor to later maps, such as the Waldseemüller Map (1507).

The Caverio Map stands as a crucial document in the history of cartography, representing a moment when the European worldview was rapidly expanding through exploration and maritime ambition.