The oldest known map of the ancient world is a clay tablet inscribed with the Babylonian Map of the World, also referred to as “Imago Mundi” in Latin. Dating back to approximately the sixth century B.C., this tablet offers a glimpse into how the Babylonians viewed their world thousands of years ago.
The map depicts the ancient world as a singular disc encircled by the Bitter River, with the Euphrates River and the city of Babylon at its center. Labels written in cuneiform note each location on the map, providing valuable insights into an earlier time.
Interestingly, cartographers may have used creative license when creating this map, as “Babylon” is marked only on one end of the Euphrates, despite occupying both banks for most of its history.
Above the map is a block of text describing the creation of the world by Marduk, the chief god of Babylonia. This passage names numerous animals and notable rulers, including Utnapishtim, a king who survived an epic flood.
On the back of the map is more text describing eight outlying regions, each with a short description. The tablet itself measures 4.8 inches tall by 3.2 inches wide (12.2 by 8.2 centimeters) and is part of The British Museum’s permanent collection.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/babylonian-map-of-the-world-the-oldest-known-map-of-the-ancient-world