Maps and atlases

The collection of maps and atlases contains all kinds of Swiss cartographic documents. It also includes foreign maps where at least one-third of the territory shown belongs to Switzerland.

A copy of the “Dufour Map”, one of the first official maps covering the entire country, can be found at the NL. — © Swisstopo / NL

Content and scope

• More than 45,000 maps and atlases
• Maps, plans, atlases, aerial photographs, panoramas
• Maps of Switzerland and also foreign maps where at least one-third of the territory shown belongs to Switzerland
• No restrictions in terms of subject-matter: topographic, geological and hydrological maps, maps of vegetation and cultural heritage, hiking and ski maps, orienteering maps, road and cycling maps are all included.

Collection principles

• Swiss or foreign authors
• Printed and digital formats
• Official topographic maps of Switzerland make up a large part of the collection.
• Maps of other countries issued by specialist Swiss publishers are also included.
• Limited collection of pre-1895 specimens. Retroactive purchase of all maps up to 1848

Research and access

• Documents listed in Helveticat

• Kartenportal.ch
• Helveticat