Lithuanian National Atlas | LNM Collections

Lithuanian National Atlas Finds New Home At National Museum, Preserving Cartographic Heritage

Vilnius, June 16, 2025 – The National Museum of Lithuania has officially received a significant donation: the complete three-volume set of the Lithuanian National Atlas. This important cartographic publication,chronicling Lithuania’s natural,historical,and socio-economic landscapes,was transferred by the National Land Service under the Ministry Of The Environment on June 11.

These volumes are poised to become a cornerstone of the museum’s already impressive cartographic collection, recognized as one of the moast important of its kind in Lithuania.

An Exclusive Gift For The Nation

The Lithuanian National Atlas project was originally spearheaded by the National Land Service, formerly under the Ministry Of Agriculture. Key contributions also came from the Center For Remote Sensing And Geoinformatics “Gis-Centras,” the “hnit-Baltic” state company, the Lithuanian Cartographic Company, and Ambassador Zenonas Kumetaitis. the Center For Geography And Cartography at the University Of Vilnius produced the majority of the atlas‘s maps. Public company “Gis-Centras” served as publisher, with exclusive copyright held by the National Land Service.

The atlas is structured as follows:

• Volume I (2014): an encyclopedic overview of Lithuania within its global and European contexts, offering detailed insights into the country’s natural environment. It includes 224 author cards detailing depths, surface features, climate, waters, soil, biota, and landscapes.
• Volume II (2016): A historical account of Lithuania presented through maps,tracing the formation of the Lithuanian nation,state-building efforts,periods of occupation,and the evolution of an self-reliant Lithuania. This volume predominantly utilizes archival sources, statistical data, and the latest scientific research.
• Volume III (2017): Focusing on political, social, economic, and cultural shifts at the turn of the 21st century, this volume examines administrative changes, population demographics, religious practices, political leanings, industrial and transport development, advancements in agriculture and forestry, and the evolution of communication services.

Salulius Mickus, Director Of The National Land Service, emphasized the atlas’s value: “These atlases bear witness to the natural, historical, and social diversity of our country and allow a large audience to discover it in the simple and clear language of cards. We hope they will not only be well preserved at the museum but also accessible to the public and the researchers.”

Rūta Kačkutė, Director General Of The National Museum Of Lithuania, added, “This gift is not only a topographic document but also an element of the memory of our state. We are happy that the museum’s collections are enriched with such precious and historically significant objects.”

A Treasure Trove Of Cartographic History

The National Museum of Lithuania already boasts an extensive cartographic collection of over 20,000 items. These range from early 16th-century documents to contemporary maps, illustrating Lithuania’s evolving political, cultural, and geographical landscape. Beyond their scientific and educational importance, these maps uniquely convey the nation’s history visually.

The addition of the Lithuanian National atlas volumes will undoubtedly serve as a vital historical resource for researchers and visitors, enriching the museum’s narrative of Lithuania’s cultural heritage.

The Lithuanian National Atlas being handed over to the National Museum of Lithuania.

The Enduring Legacy Of Maps

Maps are more than just navigational tools; they are historical records, cultural artifacts, and reflections of societal values.

Volume	Year	Focus	Key Features
I	2014	Natural Environment	Climate, landscapes, soil types
II	2016	Historical Development	State formation, occupations, independence era
III	2017	Socio-Economic Changes	Political attitudes, industrial growth, communication services

Did You Know? The earliest known world map dates back to 6th century BC Babylon!

Why This Matters

The acquisition of the Lithuanian National atlas by the National Museum of Lithuania is not just a procedural handover. It’s a crucial step in preserving and making accessible the rich tapestry of Lithuania’s past and present. These atlases provide invaluable insights into the forces that have shaped the nation.

Pro Tip: When visiting a museum, always take the time to explore the cartographic collections! They offer a unique lens through which to understand history and culture.

How do you think access to historical documents like this atlas impacts our understanding of national identity?

What other types of historical artifacts do you find most compelling and why?

Frequently Asked Questions About The Lithuanian National Atlas

What is the Lithuanian National Atlas?

The Lithuanian National Atlas is a comprehensive, multi-volume collection of maps and data illustrating Lithuania’s geography, history, and socio-economic development.

Who created the Lithuanian National Atlas?

The National Land Service initiated the project, with significant contributions from various organizations including Gis-Centras and the University Of Vilnius.

Why is this collection important?

It provides a detailed visual and informational record of Lithuania’s past and present, valuable for researchers, educators, and the public.

Where can I see the Lithuanian National Atlas?

The atlas is now part of the National Museum of Lithuania’s collection and will be accessible to visitors and researchers.

What topics are covered in the Lithuanian National Atlas?

The atlas covers a wide range of topics, including natural environment, historical evolution, political changes, and economic development.

Share your thoughts! What aspects of Lithuanian history and geography intrigue you the most? Leave a comment below.

Given the richness of information in the Lithuanian National Atlas (LNM), what are the key challenges in ensuring the long-term preservation and accessibility of its diverse collections, including both physical and digital resources?

Lithuanian National Atlas | LNM Collections: Unveiling lithuania’s Geographic Treasures

the Lithuanian National Atlas (LNM) acts as a comprehensive cartographic depiction of the nation, presenting a wealth of information on its geography, history, culture, and economy. This meticulously curated collection, a mainstay for researchers, educators, and enthusiasts alike, offers an in-depth understanding of Lithuanian geography. Within this article, we explore the rich contents of the LNM collections, their meaning, and how you can access thes invaluable resources. Dive into the world of Lithuanian maps and discover the past and contemporary importance of the lithuanian National Atlas.

Understanding the Lithuanian National atlas

the lithuanian National Atlas goes beyond a simple collection of maps. It is a carefully designed, multi-faceted resource produced by Lithuanian cartographers and experts. The primary goal is to provide a holistic view of Lithuania’s features, integrating data across a broad range of disciplines, including Lithuanian land use, demography, climate, natural resources, and transport infrastructure. LNM collections usually involve a combination of thematic maps, statistical data, and descriptive text providing a full picture of the nation.

Key Components of the Atlas

• Thematic Maps: These maps depict various aspects of Lithuania, such as population distribution, land use, and economic activity.
• Statistical Data: Supporting data complements the maps, providing numerical insights into various geographical and socio-economic factors.
• Descriptive Text: Providing context and detailed explanations of geographical features and their significance.
• Historical Maps: Showcasing the evolution of borders, settlements, and infrastructure over time.

Exploring the Scope and Contents: Discovering the LNM Collections

The LNM collections are organized thematically, allowing users to explore specific areas in the region. This strategic organization allows users to explore data efficiently and derive comprehensive insights into Lithuanian geography. The depth and breadth of the information contained within are substantial, offering opportunities for diverse research and understanding.

Areas Covered by the atlas

• Physical Geography: Includes topography, hydrology (rivers, lakes), and climate patterns.
• Human Geography: Covers population distribution, urban development, and cultural landscapes.
• Economic Activity: Shows industry sectors, agricultural production, and transportation networks within Lithuania.
• Environmental Issues: Illustrates environmental challenges and conservation efforts.
• Historical Context: Providing a timeline and maps that highlight key historical events and periods.

For example, a map might show the distribution of various soil types, coupled wiht data on agricultural production and the distribution of rural population density.This interdisciplinary approach is what makes the LNM collections such an invaluable resource for Lithuanian Geographic Studies.

Examples of LNM Data integration

Data Category	Associated information
Population Density	Detailed maps highlighting regional differences in population with statistical data on specific district populations.
Agricultural Land Use	Maps showing crop distribution combined with information on soil types and climatic conditions.
Transportation Networks	Maps highlighting roads, railway lines, and ports with associated data on traffic volume.

Accessing the Lithuanian National Atlas: Where to Find It

Accessing the Lithuanian National Atlas depends on the edition and format. Ther are typically two primary avenues for finding the atlas: physical copies and online digital resources. Digital resources frequently enough offer greater accessibility and search functionality, while physical copies provide a tangible, visual experience.

Sources and Availability

• Physical Atlases: Frequently available in major libraries,universities,and sometimes through specialized map retailers. Searching online using keywords like “Lithuanian National Atlas buy” can lead you to authorized retailers and resellers.
• Digital databases: Digital versions or extracts of the LNM collections may be available through government websites, academic institutions, and research archives. You may also find specialized databases focusing on Lithuanian maps.

Practical Tips on usage

To utilize the Lithuanian National Atlas effectively, it’s crucial to:

1. Understand the Legend and projections: Familiarize yourself with the map symbols and projection used.
2. Explore Multiple Maps: Always cross-reference information by analyzing multiple maps.
3. Consult the Accompanying Text: Contextual information in the text enhances the interpretation of maps.
4. Consider the Edition Date: Historical maps contain essential information, and more recent editions reflect the most current data.

To further enhance your understanding, complement your analysis with resources from reputable institutions. The Lithuanian National Land Service (Nacionalinė žemės tarnyba) is an excellent place to seek additional geographic information about Lithuania.

The Enduring Value of the Lithuanian National Atlas

The significance of the Lithuanian National Atlas extends beyond mere cartography. It contributes significantly to education, research, and cultural understanding. By understanding Lithuanian geography, people can gain an thankfulness for the country’s past, present, and future.The LNM collections also provide insights into how Lithuania’s strategic environment has evolved and impacted its development.

the Lithuanian National Atlas is an essential resource offering a very detailed analysis of Lithuania’s landscape,culture,and history. Its detailed maps, combined with extensive statistical data and historical context, make it a crucial resource for anyone seeking knowledge of the country. Whether it’s navigating from a past event, or researching for an academic paper, the LNM is an essential asset for exploring the geographic and cultural diversity of Lithuania.