Carte de Cassini

The Carte de Cassini is a collection of detailed maps created in the 18th century by the French cartographer, César-François Cassini de Thury. These maps were made by surveying and measuring the French territory using a trigonometric method, resulting in a highly accurate and comprehensive representation of the country.

CDIP, or Centre de Diffusion de l'Information sur le Patrimoine, has digitized and made available online this valuable historical resource. Researchers, historians, and curious individuals can explore the Carte de Cassini using this platform, which offers various tools for browsing and searching the maps.

The collection consists of over 1800 sheets spanning across four large-scale maps that cover the entirety of France. Each map is accompanied by a detailed legend that explains the symbols and features represented in the map. The Carte de Cassini provides insight into the landscape, vegetation, and human settlements that existed in France before the industrial revolution.

Exploring these maps is not only a fascinating dive into history but also a valuable tool for understanding the evolution and development of modern-day France. CDIP's digitization of the Carte de Cassini ensures that this essential piece of French cartographic history is available to everyone online.