Map of Ceylon

This map shows the island of Ceylon as it was known to Joris van Spilbergen. On the bottom of the map we see the Dutch ships arrive at Gallee, from where they continued to Batticaloa (Matecola). The map shows a number of towns, fortifications, pagoda’s, ports and monasteries. In the center, the Hindu god Ganesha and his worshippers are depicted. In the seas, there are several creatures that likely represent whales, sealions. On the bottom left is a more fantastical depiction of a mermaid on a sea horse. The text on the bottom left says that the elephant is putting a man on his back. The text next to “Zelon” (Ceylon) says this is a large city where the king of Ceylon held his court. The text on the top left says there is pearl fishing there.