The ancient city of Athens has a rich and complex history that spans thousands of years. From its humble beginnings as a small settlement to its rise as one of the most important cultural and political centers of the ancient world, Athens has continuously evolved and expanded. Over time, the maps of Athens have also evolved, reflecting the changing landscape and the city's shifting boundaries. The earliest known maps of Athens date back to ancient Greece, specifically to the 5th century BC. These early maps were rudimentary, hand-drawn on scrolls or stone tablets. They depicted the major landmarks and streets of the city, such as the Acropolis and the Agora. However, as the city continued to grow and expand, the need for more detailed and accurate maps became apparent. One of the most significant developments in the evolution of maps of Athens came during the Roman period. The Romans, known for their engineering prowess, introduced a more systematic approach to mapping the city. They divided Athens into districts, known as demes, and created a detailed survey of the city's streets and buildings. These maps, known as topographic maps, provided a more accurate representation of Athens' urban landscape. During the Byzantine era, which lasted from the 4th century AD to the 15th century AD, Athens went through a period of decline. The city's population shrank, and many of its ancient buildings fell into disrepair. As a result, maps of this period are scarce, and the ones that do exist are often incomplete or inaccurate. Nevertheless, these maps provide valuable insight into the layout of the city during this tumultuous period. The Ottoman Empire, which ruled over Athens from the late 15th century AD to the early 19th century AD, brought about significant changes to the city's urban fabric. The Ottomans constructed grand mosques, such as the iconic Fethiye Mosque, and imposed their own architectural style on the city. Maps from this period often depict the new mosques and palaces, highlighting the Ottoman influence on Athens' skyline. The modern era marked a turning point in the maps of Athens. As the city underwent rapid industrialization and urbanization in the 19th and 20th centuries, the need for more accurate and detailed maps became paramount. The first modern maps of Athens were produced in the early 19th century, following the establishment of the modern Greek state. These maps depicted not only the city's streets and buildings but also its transportation network, including newly built roads and railways. In recent years, technological advancements have revolutionized the way we create and use maps. The widespread use of satellite imagery and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) has enabled the creation of highly detailed and interactive maps of Athens. These maps provide not only a visual representation of the city but also valuable data on various aspects, such as population density, land use, and infrastructure. Today, maps of Athens are readily available to locals and tourists alike. Whether in print or digital form, these maps offer a wealth of information about the city's history, culture, and attractions. They allow visitors to navigate the city's streets, discover its hidden gems, and trace the footsteps of ancient philosophers and statesmen. The evolution of maps of Athens mirrors the city's own evolution. From the simple hand-drawn maps of ancient Greece to the highly detailed and interactive maps of today, these representations of Athens have played a crucial role in understanding and appreciating the city's past and present. As Athens continues to grow and change, so too will its maps, reflecting the ever-evolving nature of this magnificent city.