Geographical Literature: Atlas of Morocco

Summary

The first four plates of a new national atlas of Morocco have been published. The large format (56 × 47 cm) allows scales of 1:2,000,000 for full-page maps and 1:4,000,000 for layouts with four maps per sheet. Full-page maps are printed with hypsometric tints in four delicate brownish tones, whereas the multi-map sheets appear on a white background. Plate 40a depicts the distribution of sheep and goats using graduated red and green circles in three size classes, complemented by a diagram of population variations since 1940 and an inset map of sheep breeds. Plate 40b comprises four separate maps presenting cattle and pigs, dromedaries, horses, and mules and donkeys. Plate 44a shows railway lines classified by track gauge and motive power, passenger traffic at major stations through sector diagrams, and city plans with environs maps of important localities. Plate 44b visualizes total freight traffic as well as flows of mining and agricultural products in four maps. The atlas is accompanied by a series of “Études et Documents” (initially providing transliteration rules for Arabic and Berber names) and an explanatory booklet for each sheet containing text maps and statistical tables. This ambitious cartographic undertaking is commended with best wishes for a smooth continuation and successful completion.