MAP – Mercator brings the world of cartography to life
An innovative museum where historical masterpieces and interactive technology come together to forge a new path.
MAP – Mercator officially opened its doors in Sint-Niklaas in December 2025. As Belgium’s first museum entirely dedicated to cartography, it takes visitors on a journey into the world of maps, cartographers and the enduring influence of Gerard Mercator. Historical masterpieces, such as Mercator’s original globes and the Lafreri atlas, are combined with interactive installations, projections and digital applications that invite visitors to discover maps in an innovative way.
The thematic museum layout demonstrates how maps not only depict our surroundings, but also tell stories, shape perspectives and help us to better understand the world. By bringing heritage and technology together, an experience is created in which visitors are actively drawn into the story behind cartography.
The museum’s success demonstrates that this approach resonates with the public. Less than six months after opening, MAP – Mercator welcomed its 20,000th visitor. This confirms the museum’s role as a new cultural attraction where local residents, schools, tourists and heritage enthusiasts come together to discover Flanders’ rich cartographic heritage.
For more information about the museum, visit the official page here!
