Mediaeval Symposium: Mappa Mundi
April 11, 2026 @ 8:30 am – 4:30 pm EDT
$150
Mappa mundi: Mapping the Mediaeval World will explore that mediaeval Europe from two perspectives: how mediaeval people configured their world and how mediaevalists are employing mapping to better understand that world. In the Middle Ages there were various types of maps intended to illustrate different ideas: the earth’s spherical shape complemented by continents (generally Europe, Asia, Africa, and an unknown continent, referred to as the Antipodes). Maps could depict holy sites and pilgrimage routes or different people, animals and even the unknown creatures that might inhabit space out of sight, just beyond the earth’s margins: “hic sunt dracones” (Here be dragons!). Our exploration of mediaeval mapping will take us across the mediaeval Europe and beyond, demonstrating just how well-travelled mediaeval people were. Some maps could be used in battle, others were for trade, and till mapped the seas. We will also move into micro spaces, mapping cities, and even neighbourhoods, to better understand mediaeval people’s daily lives and the challenges they could face from nature and society. Hosted by Jacqueline Murray, University Professor Emerita, University of Guelph; Fellow, St. Michael’s College; and Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada. Registration includes coffee & tea and a Mediaeval lunch.
