The Atlas of Israel

Summary

The Atlas of Israel, authored by David H.K. Amiran and N. Kadmon of the Hebrew University, Jerusalem, reviews the completion of its first Hebrew edition in 1964, comprising 102 sheets and 720 large-scale maps. Although modeled on other national atlases, it differs due to Israel's rapidly evolving cultural landscape, unique geographical position and form, and a changing documentary base. To address extreme transformations in agriculture, economy, and services from a 600% population increase, the atlas employs time-sequence map series for most subjects, with a final folder adding updated maps. The country's northern half exhibits high geographical diversity contrasting with the monotonous south, and varied topography over small altitude ranges, necessitating tailored cartographic methods. Additionally, the region's inclusion in three political frameworks (Ottoman, British, and Israeli) over 50 years led to inconsistent scientific data coverage and reliability, posing editorial challenges. The atlas thus serves as a model for national mapping in dynamic contexts, balancing comprehensive representation with adaptability.