Modern road maps began to take shape in the 20th century, largely influenced by the invention of the automobile, patented by German engineer Carl Benz in January 1886. The American company Rand McNally was the first to produce road maps on a national scale in 1904. In 1910, French entrepreneurs André and Édouard Michelin, founders of the renowned tire brand, released a famous guide for Europe and expanded their offerings over time.
The Enduring Relevance of Paper Maps
Today, road maps provide detailed information on transportation networks, including tolls, signage, rest areas, and tourist attractions. Remarkably, over a century later, traditional paper road maps continue to stand their ground against GPS navigation. For instance, in the Netherlands, the Royal Dutch Touring Club (ANWB) distributes two million free maps to its five million members, a notable figure in a country of just 18 million.
While many drivers keep GPS systems activated during their journeys, the appeal of spreading a physical map on a table to plan routes remains strong. Paper maps serve as a reliable backup in case digital technology fails or signal reception is inadequate. The ANWB updates its maps every two years due to ongoing demand, with popular destinations for Dutch motorists extending across Europe—from Scandinavia and the United Kingdom to Spain and Hungary.
Annelies Tichelaar, a spokesperson for ANWB, noted, “We asked our members about their preference for road maps in digital format, and the consensus is that they still value having a printed copy.” She added, “Using a pen to underline the route allows for a more comprehensive plan compared to the fragments displayed by a digital navigator.”
The Educational Value of Traditional Maps
Planning a trip by highlighting locations and showing children the paths marked on the map not only enhances the journey but also provides an engaging way to introduce them to basic geography and topography. Tichelaar remarked that traditional road maps create a tangible, stimulating perspective that enriches the excitement of any holiday.
The Limitations of GPS Technology
Since 2000, hand-marked cartographic data has been integrated into Geographic Information Systems (GIS), allowing GPS systems to offer precise real-time locations. However, reliance on these devices can lead to problematic scenarios. A survey by the Dutch television program Hart van Nederland revealed that in 2025, 17% of respondents had encountered restrictions by inadvertently driving on prohibited roads based on GPS directions. Additionally, 26% admitted to committing traffic violations due to blindly following digital guidance.
At ANWB, officials acknowledge the growing reliance on GPS devices, yet emphasize that using a paper map provides a unique overview of the entire route. This format offers not only inspiration but also reliability, as paper maps do not require batteries and are immune to technical failures.
Historical Context of Road Maps
The concept of road guides dates back to ancient times, with notable examples from the Roman Empire, such as the Antonine Itinerary, which likely compiled key routes in the third century. Another significant guide, the Tabula Peutingeriana, emerged in the 4th century. Though not to scale like contemporary maps, it depicted rivers, seas, mountains, and key infrastructure, illustrating the extensive road networks of the era.
These ancient Roman roads were essential not only for travelers but also for tax collectors, who would often be accompanied by guards for security during their journeys. The Tabula Peutingeriana can be viewed as an early precursor to modern road guides, which continue to thrive despite technological advancements in navigation.
