description Matthew Paris Overview
Matthew Paris (c. 1200–1259) was an English Benedictine monk of St Albans Abbey who served as a chronicler, cartographer, and illustrator. His major work, the Chronica Majora, is a key historical source for 13th-century European events. He produced several notable medieval maps, including an itinerary map from London to the Holy Land and one of the earliest detailed maps of Great Britain.
His manuscripts are distinguished by extensive illustrations and marginal drawings that accompany the text.
help Matthew Paris FAQ
Who was Matthew Paris?
Matthew Paris was an English Benedictine monk, chronicler, illustrator, and cartographer associated with St Albans Abbey. He lived approximately from 1200 to 1259.
What is the Chronica Majora?
The Chronica Majora is Matthew Paris's major historical work and covers European events up to 1259. It is an important source for studying 13th-century English and European history.
What maps did Matthew Paris create?
His manuscripts include maps and itineraries connected with Britain, Europe, and the Holy Land. One famous itinerary traces a route from London toward Jerusalem through places such as Rome and Apulia.
Why are Matthew Paris's maps important to cartography?
They combine geographic information with routes, cities, religious history, and manuscript illustration. His 13th-century maps are among the important surviving examples of medieval English cartographic work.
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