Ancient Mapping Around the River Jordan

Posted by Neil Gunn Dec 10, 2008

I came across a book review in the Jordan Times by Hisham Khatib recently. He was discussing a new book called Mapping Jordan Through Two Millennia by John R Bartlett.

As an enthusiast of ancient Middle Eastern history, this book which looks at the mapping of both east and west of the Jordan River looks particularly interesting. Although the writer makes the point that the lands east of the Jordan were almost ignored by ancient mapmakers and travellers.

John Bartlett goes on to highlight the work done by the British Army, the Palestine Exploration Fund and the American Palestine Exploration Society.

The book illustrates how travellers put together their ancient maps drawing for example on the work of the Romans and early Christian pilgrims.

It also looks at the impact of the Edomites, Moabites, Ammonites and others that Hisham Khatib describes as “unfriendly.”

Although it’s published in the UK, Maney also has an office in the USA. The book is available world wide, so check out your local library.

I wonder if the publishers would like a Suite 101 review?