This antique map, created in 1665 and titled ‘L’Evesché D’Aire’, depicts a region in southwest France. ‘L’Evesché’ translates to ‘the bishopric’, referring to the area’s historical ties to the Catholic Church.
France in the early 17th century was a period of great change and upheaval. The country was ruled by the Bourbon dynasty, with King Louis XIII and his son, Louis XIV, overseeing a period of centralisation and increased state power. The period was marked by religious conflicts, including the Huguenot Wars, and by the growth of France’s overseas empire.
The region depicted on this map, located centrally between Mont-de-Marsan, Dax, and Orthez, was an important centre for agriculture and trade. The area was known for its production of wine, as well as for its textile industry. The map may show details such as roads, rivers, and towns, providing insight into the region’s