A visual representation of Earth’s surface designed for display, able to be produced via printing. This encompasses various cartographic styles, projections, and thematic focuses, rendered in a format suitable for reproduction using standard printing methods. An example would be a political map displaying national borders, or a topographical map showing elevation changes, both formatted for printing on large-format paper.
These visual aids offer several advantages, including educational value for geography and global awareness, decorative appeal for homes and offices, and practical use for planning travel routes or understanding global events. Historically, these printed items provided crucial geographic information before the advent of digital mapping technologies and continue to serve as tangible resources that enhance spatial understanding. Their accessibility and versatility contribute to their ongoing relevance.
The subsequent sections will delve into the different types of these visual tools available, explore the considerations for selecting the most appropriate one, and provide guidance on obtaining and utilizing them effectively.