The National Geographic Photographic World Atlas

Combining the National Geographic Magazine's award-winning photojournalism with its renowned cartography, this is the definitive world atlas with 550 detailed physical, political, and regional maps and 350 color photographs. The atlas is the first of its kind to display UNESCO World Heritage Sites, selected to represent the cultural and natural heritage of the world, on global, continental, and regional maps. Much more than a book of maps, the atlas has sections on vital global issues like religion, health and education, climate change, the Internet, military strength, and more. Maps, graphs, statistics, and in-depth text explore the impact these matters have on the earth and society. Multilayered regional portraits capture the character and culture of each region with vivid photographs of local treasures--from The Great Wall of China to the Acropolis of Athens--and maps that emphasize population, protected areas, and urbanization trends. The physical maps are hand painted by relief artists and emphasize subtle features that are often invisible in satellite imagery. 416 pages. Hardcover. 16 1/2" H x 11 1/2" W. (8 1/2 lbs.)