Buzz
The universe is filled with oddities, so it’s no surprise that some of the maps we’ve used to explore it over the years are equally peculiar. Here are ten of the most unusual:
10. The Bible Map of the World
Let’s clarify upfront: this critique isn’t about the map’s Christian origins, so there’s no need to head to the comments section to protest. Instead, we’re pointing out that it looks absurd.
Drawn in 1893 by Professor Orlando Ferguson, this map aimed to debunk the idea of a spherical Earth. While his argument might seem convincing at first glance—ignoring the four angels stationed at the Earth’s corners, who appear unfazed by an incoming meteor—it falls apart when you notice the curved oceans and the sun and moon dangling from what looks like a child’s mobile. The inconsistencies are endless.
9. Hark Hark! The Dogs Do Bark!
Created in 1914, this map offered a humorous take on the ongoing World War One, as newspapers sought to lighten the mood amidst relentless reports of death and destruction.
Perhaps they should have promoted this as a new way to wage wars, since everyone enjoys seeing a Bulldog (England) take on a Dachshund (Germany), while a Poodle (France) barks at a Mongrel (Austria)—especially if it means avoiding the loss of over a million lives.
8. The Island of California
Long before Google Earth existed, explorers had to charter ships, gather supplies, and recruit daring crews willing to risk sailing into the unknown for wealth and fame.
However, preparation didn’t always guarantee success. In 1533, Hernan Cortes’ expedition stumbled upon a mysterious island off the west coast of the USA. No, it wasn’t Atlantis or the island from Lost (unfortunately). It was California. Before the Spaniards could verify their discovery, they hastily sailed away for reasons unknown. Without confirming their findings, they declared it an island, and the myth of the Island of California persisted until 1774, when another expedition revealed the truth.
7. The Catacomb City of the Lizard People
If you’ve ventured into the stranger corners of the internet—like Reddit or the Fox News website—you’ve likely encountered the conspiracy theory that a secret race of lizard people, including Queen Elizabeth II, rules the world.
This idea isn’t new. In 1934, G. Warren Shufelt, a mining engineer who was previously considered sane, claimed to have discovered a network of catacombs beneath Los Angeles, allegedly the ancestral base of our reptilian rulers. However, when he attempted to excavate the tunnels, he found—unsurprisingly—nothing. The city breathed a sigh of relief, reassured that their underground wasn’t home to a secret alien cult. This peace of mind lasted until Scientologists arrived decades later.
6. The Bunting Clover Leaf Map
Before the 16th century, it was common for cartographers to place Jerusalem at the Earth’s center, reflecting the deep influence of Christianity during that era.
This map by Heinrich Bunting stands as one of the final examples of this tradition. Shortly after, the age of exploration and scientific advancement reshaped the world, leaving no one who still believed the Earth resembled a clover.
5. The Fool’s Cap Map
Appropriately for a map that could easily belong in a serial killer’s lair, little is known about its origins. Its exact age is unclear (though it’s estimated to be from around 1580–1590), its creator remains unidentified, and its place of creation is a mystery.
Belgium is often cited as the most likely origin, and if the rumors are true, it would be the most thrilling event to happen there since the Western Front. According to experts in symbolism, the map is a scathing critique of a world filled with fools, which apparently passed as a sharp insult in ancient times.
4. The Porcineograph
No, this isn’t a way to talk to pigs; it’s the title of this charming map by W. E. Baker, a pig enthusiast. In 1875, Baker established an innovative pig farm aimed at reducing foodborne illnesses. So proud was he of his achievement that he hosted a celebration, gifting guests copies of this map. The map’s borders feature illustrations of the finest pork dishes from the region. We’d describe a few, but there are too many, and it’s making us too hungry to continue.
3. Geological Map of the Moon
You might think we’ve mistakenly included a modern art piece instead of the promised geological map. It’s vibrant, colorful, and far too lively to be the work of the typically serious US Geological Service. Yet, this is indeed the moon’s geology—specifically, the far side (not to be confused with the dark side, which lacks this brightness). The vivid colors result from scientists color-coding the moon’s diverse rock types, using every hue imaginable due to the sheer variety.
2. John Bull Bombarding The Bum-Boats
While the English are known globally for their politeness, this 1793 print by James Gillray shows they’re not above expressing themselves forcefully when necessary. The cartoon, depicting England as John Bull, was a response to fears of a French invasion. Winston Churchill’s absence at the time likely influenced the choice of John Bull as the national symbol.
1. The Land of the Octopuses
Throughout the 20th century, Germany and Russia were notorious for instilling fear across the globe. Unsurprisingly, political cartoonists depicted these nations in less-than-flattering ways. Newspapers frequently featured illustrations of Germany and Russia as giant, creeping octopuses, their tentacles extending over the world. While one might wonder why they didn’t choose a more fearsome creature, the image of Stalin’s head with tentacles renders that question irrelevant.
