France

From Blaeu's townbook of the southern Netherlands, first published in 1649. Blaeu composed his townbooks towards the end of the conflict with Spain and consequently the atlas became linked with the Dutch struggle for independence, proudly showing cities and stategic places. The town of Hesdin was forceably moved in the mid 16th century to its present site down in the Canche Valley by order of the Spanish Emperor Charles V. The old Hesdin was located in the hills and had been a dangerous French stronghold in the border wars between France and Spanish Flanders. 390 x 500 mm (15.25 x 19.75 inches).

Hand-coloured, double-page, engraved map, Dutch text on verso.

Koeman, Atlantes Neerlandici B1 64.