The Magellanic region in 16th century Italian mural cartography

This paper presents an analysis of 16th-century Italian mural cartography, focusing on geographical representations of the Magellan region and the Strait of Magellan. Through frescoes and maps in Renaissance palaces like the Vatican and Palazzo Farnese, it examines how Italy, despite not being a maritime power, used mural art to reflect the geographical knowledge acquired from the great discoveries of the time. The paper highlights the intent behind these representations, which aimed to display power, wealth, and prestige, rather than provide accurate information about the geography of the world.