Straßenkarten

Straßenkarten, also known as road maps, are graphical representations of land areas showing roads, cities, and other geographical features. They are primarily designed for navigation and planning travel routes. Traditionally, Straßenkarten were printed on paper, folded for portability, and widely used by drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. They typically depict a network of roads categorized by type, such as highways, main roads, and local streets, often indicated by different colors or line weights. Important landmarks, such as towns, villages, points of interest, and sometimes even geographical features like rivers and mountains, are also marked.

The detail and scale of Straßenkarten vary significantly depending on their intended purpose. A city map will show a much finer level of detail for streets and buildings within a small area, while a national road atlas will cover a larger territory with less granular street information, focusing instead on major routes and connections between cities. Road maps often include a legend explaining the symbols and colors used, as well as a scale to estimate distances.

In the modern era, the function of traditional Straßenkarten has largely been taken over by digital navigation systems and applications. These electronic maps, often referred to as digital maps or GPS maps, offer real-time updates, turn-by-turn directions, traffic information, and the ability to search for specific addresses or points of interest. Despite the prevalence of digital alternatives, printed Straßenkarten remain in use, especially in areas with limited or unreliable mobile connectivity, or as a backup for electronic devices. They also hold value for historical research and as a tangible representation of geography.