Nolli

A Nolli map is a type of cartographic representation developed by the Italian architect and urban planner Giuseppe Nolli in the 18th century. Unlike traditional maps that focus on physical features like streets and buildings, Nolli maps emphasize the spatial relationships and circulation within urban environments. These maps highlight public and private spaces, often using simple line work to distinguish between accessible and inaccessible areas.

Nolli’s most famous work, the *Piano di Roma* (Plan of Rome), created in 1748, revolutionized urban mapping by focusing on the functional organization of the city rather than its topography. The map divides Rome into public and private domains, with solid lines indicating walls or barriers and open spaces showing accessible areas. This approach allowed planners and architects to analyze urban flow, privacy, and connectivity in ways traditional maps did not.

Nolli maps gained prominence for their clarity and utility in urban analysis, influencing later studies in urbanism and architecture. They remain relevant today in fields like urban planning, architectural design, and historical preservation, where understanding spatial dynamics is crucial. The method has been adapted for modern contexts, including digital mapping and GIS (Geographic Information Systems), to study contemporary cities.

The legacy of Nolli’s work lies in its ability to simplify complex urban landscapes into meaningful, actionable data. His maps serve as a foundational example of how cartography can inform urban policy and design, bridging the gap between physical space and human experience.