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This fine original color example of Lumman's Manheim, a fine City of Germany in the Palatinate of the Rhine, was engraved and published by John Luffman on April 1, 1802. It is part of Luffman's Select Plans, Volume II, and provides a detailed and decorative representation of the city of Mannheim, located in the Palatinate region along the Rhine and Neckar Rivers.

The map showcases Mannheim's strategic location at the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar Rivers, emphasizing the city's importance as a fortified and well-planned urban center. The city's layout is depicted in a star fort design, highlighting its defensive structures and geometrically arranged streets.

• Fortifications: The map prominently features the intricate star-shaped fortifications surrounding Mannheim. These bastions and ramparts are designed for optimal defense, reflecting the military engineering practices of the period. The fortifications are colored in blue and brown, providing a clear distinction between the defensive walls and the city within.
• City Layout: Within the fortifications, the urban layout is shown with a central open area, likely representing the main market square or a significant public space. The streets are arranged in a grid pattern, radiating from the central area and aligned with the fortifications.
• Waterways: The Rhine River is depicted on the left side of the map, flowing southwards, while the Neckar River intersects with the Rhine at the northern part of the city. The rivers are crucial for trade, transportation, and the city's strategic defense.

Mannheim was established in 1606 by Elector Friedrich IV of the Palatinate. The city was planned and built around the Mannheim Castle, which served as the residence of the Elector Palatine and became a significant cultural and economic center in the Palatinate region of the Holy Roman Empire. Mannheim was heavily fortified during the Thirty Years' War (1618-1648) but was devastated by the conflict. It was occupied by various forces and saw significant destruction. After the war, Mannheim was rebuilt and fortified further. The construction of the Mannheim Palace began in 1720 under Elector Karl III Philip, and it became one of the largest Baroque palaces in Germany.

The city's fortifications, as depicted in this map, reflect the military architectural advancements of the time, designed to protect against sieges and invasions.