What is Old Maps Online?
Old Maps Online is a search engine for historical maps. You move a modern map to the area you care about, or type a place name, then use a timeline to narrow the results to the years you want. The results are old maps of that spot from libraries and archives around the world.
Results link to the map scans at the institutions that hold them. Searching is free, and a free account comes with some limits, such as five favourite maps. Paid monthly or yearly memberships add more. There is also an OldMapsOnline app by Klokan Technologies, which lets you overlay old maps on a modern one.
Main Features
- Search old maps by place name or by moving the map
- A timeline to filter maps by date
- Maps from libraries and archives around the world
- Links to the original scans at the host institution
- Favourite maps to keep your finds
- Advanced search and map exports for members
- An app that overlays old maps on a modern map
How to Get Started with Old Maps Online
- Open oldmapsonline.org.
- Type a place name or move the map to the area you want.
- Drag the timeline to the years you care about.
- Click a result to preview the old map.
- Follow the link to see the full scan at the library that holds it.
Old Maps Online Pricing
Searching Old Maps Online is free. Free accounts have limits, such as five favourite maps. Paid memberships, billed monthly or yearly, add unlimited favourites, advanced search, private map uploads, exports and an ad-free experience. The mobile app has an ad-free upgrade.
Who Should Use It?
- Family history researchers
- Local history fans
- Teachers and students
- Map collectors
- Writers researching a place in the past
Old Maps Online Alternatives
- TimeGuessr asks you to place historical photos in time and on the map.
- The True Size Of lets you drag countries around to compare their real sizes.
- Ancient Earth shows where your town sat on the globe millions of years ago.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Old Maps Online free?
Yes, searching is free. A paid membership removes limits and adds features such as advanced search and exports.
Where do the maps on Old Maps Online come from?
They come from libraries and archives around the world, and results link to the scans those institutions hold.
Can I search by date?
Yes. A timeline lets you narrow the results to the years you want.
Is there an Old Maps Online app?
Yes. The OldMapsOnline app by Klokan Technologies lets you browse old maps and overlay them on a modern map.