Nasjonalatlas

Summary

This article reviews over 20 national atlases published or in preparation worldwide, focusing on their design characteristics in terms of scale selection, page format, binding methods, and textual commentary. It notes that national atlases, as comprehensive thematic cartographic works, serve not only research and education but also provide foundational material for national planning. Through comparative examples from Finland, Sweden, Britain, France, and other countries, the author examines how different national land areas and shapes influence atlas design, and specifically discusses the advantages of loose-leaf binding over bound volumes, namely the ability to publish in installments and maintain topicality. Finally, considering Norway's geographical characteristics, the article proposes specific recommendations for scale and layout in a prospective Norwegian national atlas, noting that the Norwegian National Committee for Geography has already proposed such a project, pending funding arrangements.