Atlas & Book Reviews: Atlas de Colombia, 3rd ed.

Summary

This review offers a critical evaluation of the third edition of the *Atlas de Colombia* (1977). The analysis assesses the atlas's cartographic design, structural organization, physical and cultural geography coverage, and overall utility for academic and reference purposes. The atlas is commended for its durable binding, clear hypsometric color schemes, and well-organized cultural geography section, which includes large-scale city maps paired with oblique aerial photographs. A supplementary section of historical cartography (1570–1927) adds scholarly value. Weaknesses are noted in the physical geography portion: repetitive coverage of the national territory and technical shortcomings such as narrow page margins and tight map gutters that hinder usability. Despite these flaws, the atlas is judged to be superior to comparable South American national atlases, particularly the Venezuelan atlas, in terms of relevance to North American geographers. The reviewer concludes that the volume is an excellent, affordably priced acquisition for libraries and a highly recommended resource for Latin American studies, praising its overall editorial quality and efficient presentation.