Abraham Ortelius, born in Antwerp, 4 April, 1527, creator of the Theatrum Orbis Terrarum (Theatre of the World), is regarded as one of the most prominent geographers of the sixteenth century and has been assigned the title of "Father of Modern Cartography".

After the death of his father, Ortelius began to trade and peddle geographical charts and maps while still a young boy. At the age of twenty he joined a guild as a colourer of charts. By purchasing as many valuable maps as possible, mounting them on canvas, colouring and re-selling them, he managed to assist in supporting his family. Meanwhile he did not confine himself entirely to dealing, in 1570, by assembling a compendium of the most modern and reliable maps of the world and specific countries, Abraham Ortelius created the first great modern Atlas.