| Everybody has at least once confronted with classical topographic maps - whether at geography lessons, or while travelling. Such maps are known for giving a very precise presentation of the landscape. They reflect all the objects with scaling and using various lines. Although classical topographic maps constitute by the highest standards a set of symbols that are not so simple for a customary user to understand. From time to time you need an expert to explain some features on the map. Anyway, it'll take some time and efforts to learn the topographic maps language. Luckily, there are plenty of other ways to depict an area. They are numerous, but may be divided into three main groups:
- Illustrated maps
- Panoramic maps
- Pictorial maps
You can surmise what these types of maps constitute by their names, but we'll give some explanation to avert probable confusion.
This way, an illustrated map is a topographic map with some additional illustrations. It signifies that individual objects on the map (for example, buildings, places of activity or some other features) will be marked by little pictures. This type of maps is the closest one to the classical version.
A panoramic map can be referred to as a portrait of the landscape. Sometimes it's also called a perspective since it pictures a certain zone like it's viewed from above. Such maps are very accurate about sizes, but from the other side, different individual objects are scarcely recognizable or even not recognizable at all. Such type of maps is widespread in certain branches such as ski resorts pictures.
As for pictorial map this kind is focused on the details, but not at following accurate dimensions. Individual objects are portrayed with their distinguishing features and, consequently, are easily recognizable. On the other hand, distances don't always correspond with the reality, form time to time the landscape can be slightly distorted or reduced as the stress is placed on the representation of objects. The named type of maps enjoys high popularity due to their nice appearance, informative filling and easiness in use. Despite scale distortions they are very convenient for navigating while planning a travel or seeking a certain place. |
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