portolás
Portolás refers to a type of navigational chart used from the late 13th to the 16th centuries, primarily in the Mediterranean and Black Seas. These charts were characterized by their detailed coastlines, rhumb lines, and the depiction of ports and harbors. Unlike later Mercator projections, portolás were not designed for accurate plotting of latitude and longitude over long distances. Instead, they prioritized ease of use for coastal navigation, relying on compass directions and estimated distances.
The origin of the term "portolás" is debated, but it is generally believed to derive from the
Key features of portolán charts include the prominent display of rhumb lines, which are lines radiating from
Portolán charts were essential tools for medieval and Renaissance mariners, facilitating trade and exploration within the