Background, conception, and development of the "New national atlas of Cuba"

The editors recount the preparation of the Nuevo atlas nacional de Cuba from its initiation in 1983 to completion on 1 January 1989, involving approximately 150 institutions and 1,500 specialists. They explain that new research needs shaped the project, while a matrix model coordinated relationships among maps. Map content and representation methods were defined by early 1985; section-level expert councils subsequently reviewed and openly voted on maps and texts before preparation of publication originals began in 1986. According to the editors, the expanding research programme led them to incorporate the atlas into the development of Cuba’s geographic information system, SIG-Cuba, alongside work on automated cartography, software and specialist training. Interchangeable fascicles were chosen to permit partial updating and separate or comparative use of maps. The completed atlas contains 210 sheets, approximately 59 × 52 cm, with colour maps, explanatory texts, indexes and a bibliography; whole-country maps generally range from 1:1,000,000 to 1:4,000,000. The editors identify the established SIG-Cuba and subsequent regional atlases and geographical studies as outcomes of the compilation experience.