Der Atlas der Republik Österreich

Summary

This article introduces the background, objectives, methodology, and organization of the 'Atlas of the Republic of Austria', compiled by the Commission for Spatial Research of the Austrian Academy of Sciences. The atlas aims to systematically present Austria's natural environment, population, economy, administration, and culture in cartographic form, providing a comprehensive spatial information base for policy-making, administration, and regional planning. Its core methodology follows the geographical principle of progressing from analysis to synthesis, moving from the presentation of individual elements (e.g., relief, climate, soils) to the comprehensive depiction of complex spatial entities (e.g., natural regions, economic areas, transport networks). The article emphasizes that although the atlas is not a planning atlas in the strict sense, it serves as an excellent information source and foundation for spatial planning. Furthermore, it details the atlas's editorial organization, technical design principles, data sources, and publication schedule, highlighting its significance for national self-awareness and public scientific service.