Sign In

- Or use -
Forgot Password Create Account
Description

This late 18th-century map provides a detailed depiction of the Archangel Governorate (modern-day Arkhangelsk Oblast) within the Russian Empire. 

The map illustrates the vast expanse of the Archangel Governorate, bordered to the west by the White Sea and Lapland, to the south by the Moscow Governorate, and extending eastward into Siberian Russia. It meticulously delineates administrative divisions, settlements, rivers, and key geographical features, with provincial boundaries outlined in pink. The Arctic Circle (Circolo Polare Artico) is prominently marked, emphasizing the region's proximity to the far north.

Numerous rivers, including the Northern Dvina, Mezen, and Pechora, traverse the territory, highlighting their significance as vital transport routes in this largely forested and sparsely populated region. The White Sea, labeled as Mare Bianco, is depicted with coastal settlements such as Arkhangelsk, which served as Russia’s principal seaport before the rise of St. Petersburg. 

At the time of this map’s publication, the Archangel Governorate was an important administrative unit of the Russian Empire, serving as a key center for maritime trade, timber exports, and naval operations. Established as a governorate in 1708 under Peter the Great’s administrative reforms, Arkhangelsk played a crucial role in Russia’s connection to European markets, particularly before St. Petersburg’s emergence as the empire’s main port.

The map labels various districts (uyezds), reflecting the administrative organization of the Russian Empire. Settlements of varying sizes are marked, indicating both major towns and smaller rural outposts, which were crucial for trade, resource extraction, and military logistics.