Folio Five from Burchard of Sion's De locis ac mirabilibus mundi, or an Illuminated Geography c. 1460

This is Folio Five from Burchard of Sion's *De locis ac mirabilibus mundi*, or an Illuminated Geography, made in Europe in the 1280's. This manuscript page is a window into the medieval worldview. Burchard of Mount Sion, a German priest, compiled this geographical treatise based on his travels to the Holy Land. But don't mistake this for a modern map; it blends geographical observations with biblical stories and mythical creatures. Made during a period of increased trade and pilgrimage, the book reflects a growing curiosity about the world beyond Europe, but also relies on established knowledge frameworks. Consider the decorative initials; they indicate the influence of monastic traditions of book production and illumination. Historians would look at travel accounts, religious texts, and other illuminated manuscripts to understand the cultural context that shaped this view of the world. Through this we can see how this artwork is the product of institutional structures, trade networks, and religious beliefs.