Der „Atlas der Republik Österreich” der Österreichischen Akademie der Wissenschaften

Summary

This article introduces the aims, content, and organization of the Atlas of the Republic of Austria, published by the Austrian Academy of Sciences. Conceived as a “cartographic regional geography,” the atlas not only maps individual elements of Austria’s physical and human environment, but also shows their stepwise integration into landscapes, economic areas, settlement systems, and communities, making functional spatial relationships visible. It includes current dynamics and, where relevant, historical genesis. The work is structured into twelve map groups, combining analytical and synthetic maps; cartographic clarity, comparability, and topographical accuracy are emphasized within a sound cartographic tradition. Beyond its scientific value, the atlas is intended to serve public administration and planning by providing reliable spatial information and identifying underdeveloped areas. The article describes the editorial organization under the Commission for Spatial Research, the contribution of scientific institutions and the publishing cartographic firm, and situates the project within the tradition of Austrian national and regional atlases. The author concludes that such an atlas is both a systematic record of geographical knowledge and an instrument of national self-representation and spatial planning.