Bartolomeo Oliva

Place: Majorca

Born: 1538

Death: 1588

Biography:

Bartolomeo Oliva, also known as Bartomeu Olives, was a Spanish cartographer born in Majorca, Spain in 1538. He was active as a mapmaker from 1538 to 1588, primarily in Messina, Sicily, but he began his career in Majorca. Oliva is known for his portolan charts, which are detailed maps of the Mediterranean region.

Early Life and Career

Oliva was part of a Majorcan dynasty of mapmakers, along with his brother Jaume. He is considered to be one of the most important cartographers of his time, and his work had a significant impact on the development of navigation and exploration in the Mediterranean region.

Notable Works

One of Oliva's most famous works is his Nautical chart of the Western and Central Mediterranean, drawn in Majorca in 1538. This chart covers the Western and Central Mediterranean region as far as Crete, and the Atlantic coast of the Iberian peninsula, up to Finisterre, and the North African coast. It is signed by Oliva on the neck of the parchment and features the figure of St Nicholas. Other notable works by Oliva include his portolan charts, which are detailed maps of the Mediterranean region. These charts were used by sailors and navigators to aid in navigation and exploration.

Museums and Collections

Oliva's work can be found in several museums and collections, including the Maritime Museum of Barcelona and the Biblioteca Comunale Castelfiorentino. His charts and maps are also featured in various online collections, such as those found on Wikioo.org.

Legacy

Oliva's legacy as a cartographer and mapmaker is significant. He was one of the most important cartographers of his time, and his work had a lasting impact on the development of navigation and exploration in the Mediterranean region. His charts and maps are still studied by historians and scholars today, and his contributions to the field of cartography are recognized by art and history enthusiasts around the world.

• Bartolomeo Oliva: A Spanish cartographer and mapmaker
• Nautical chart of the Western and Central Mediterranean: A detailed map of the Mediterranean region
• Maritime Museum of Barcelona: A museum featuring Oliva's work
• Biblioteca Comunale Castelfiorentino: A library and museum featuring Oliva's charts and maps

For more information about Bartolomeo Oliva and his work, visit Wikioo.org or Wikipedia.