L'Atlas de Belgique

Summary

This article introduces the "Atlas of Belgium," compiled by the National Geographical Committee of Belgium. It points out that a national atlas differs from an ordinary geographical dictionary, emphasizing a systematic, comprehensive, and explanatory presentation of the country's geographical phenomena. The atlas began planning in the 1930s, was interrupted by war, resumed in 1946, received state funding in 1947, and has been published in installments since 1948. The work comprises approximately fifty map plates, organized into eight thematic sections, covering Belgium's position in Europe, cartography and geophysics, physical geography, biogeography, human geography, economic geography, regional geography, and administration. The maps are printed by the Military Geographical Institute in a large folio format, with each plate accompanied by methodological notes and presented bilingually in French and Dutch. The article also describes subscription methods and future plans, including accompanying commentaries and aerial photographs. The atlas serves both as a scientific tool for geographical research and as a showcase of Belgium to domestic and international audiences.