A Map of the Dutchy of Holstein

Intricate map of a hotly contested territory on the border between Germany and Denmark.

The Duchy of Holstein is a historical territory and, at time of publication of this map, was at least nominally the northernmost state of the Holy Roman Empire. Control over the region had shifted several times over its history, which began with its elevation to duchy status by Emperor Frederick III in 1474.

By the early 19th century, the Holy Roman Empire had weakened significantly, and the Danish crown was eager to regain sovereignty. Less than two years after publication, the dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire would achieve just that (until the region would be later annexed by Prussia during the Schleswig-Holstein Question of the 1860’s).

This map shows the borders of the duchy in bright red, with further colored highlights identifying bishoprics and territorial ownership. An accompanying legend in the lower right provides further context, and lists the symbols used to identify farms, villages, water mills, noblemen’s seats, castles, and dykes across the image.

The last were of particular importance as fortifications in the ongoing regional conflicts. The map was published in London by William Faden in 1804.