Mapping Europe's history online
Scalable Vector Graphic (SVG) maps are among the most common, easy yet comprehensive forms of mapping available. With VICODI SVG-based visualisation, Web users are able to visualise retrieved information as well as utilise innovative tools in performing extensive queries. This is precisely what makes them an appropriate choice for use in historical maps of Europe. The 105 historical maps span from the year 1000 to 2003 in increments of decades, and prior to that, the period 500 to 1000 in increments of centuries. Furthermore the maps contain country names according to time period. If the user has found or written an article, he or she can paste the text or URL into the on-line tool. In doing so, the user can then call up the same text complete with links such as words, phrases, names, dates, etc. The system is able to pick up this information and produce the context that fits both the hyperlink and the article. The context can also come in the form of interactive graphical maps. For example, if an article about Elisabeth I is pasted into the tool, the system will produce maps of 16th century Europe according to the appropriate country, region, etc. Thus, the visually enriched interface that the VICODI project provides can allow the user to navigate through both time and place.