This antique map from 1665 titled ‘Corsica Insvla’ depicts the island of Corsica, located in the Mediterranean Sea. The title translates to ‘Island of Corsica’ in English.

France in the early 17th century was a country undergoing significant political and social changes. The reign of King Louis XIII saw the consolidation of royal power and the rise of absolute monarchy. France was also engaged in numerous military conflicts, including the Thirty Years’ War and ongoing conflicts with neighbouring countries such as Spain and Italy. The economy was largely agrarian, with a growing merchant class and significant poverty among the common people. The map of Corsica would have been created during this period of French history, and provides a glimpse into the island’s geography and political divisions. Corte, Ponte Leccia, and Prunelli-di-Fiumorbo are all located centrally on the island, which was bordered by Italy to the east.