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Description

The map shows the fortified town and surrounding area of Cayenne, the capital of French Guiana in South America. It was engraved by J. Luffman and published on October 1, 1801, as part of his Select Plans series.  

The map emphasizes the fortified design of Cayenne, reflecting its importance as a strategic colonial settlement. The town is enclosed by a series of angular walls and bastions, typical of 18th-century military architecture. At the center of the settlement is the citadel, marked as A, surrounded by a secondary, smaller defensive structure.  

A legend identifies several important structures within the settlement. These include A, the Citadel, which served as the primary defensive stronghold; B, the Church, representing the religious and social center of the colony; and C, the Governor’s House, the administrative hub of French colonial governance in the region.   

A descriptive note at the bottom of the map states, "Cayenne, a strong Town, the Capital of the French Settlements in South America situated on an Island of the same name at the mouth of the River Amazon. Latitude 5.0 North, Longitude 53.0 West of London."  

Created during the Napoleonic era, this map reflects the significance of Cayenne as a key French colonial outpost in South America. The detailed depiction of its fortifications highlights its strategic role in protecting French interests in the region, both militarily and administratively.