Maps have always been more than lines and landmarks; they're instruments of power, persuasion, and the occasional cover-up. 'Secret Maps', the British Library's new exhibition (24 October–18 January), steps into the shadows to explore how maps have been used to create, control, and conceal knowledge from the 14th century to today.
You'll find hidden landscapes, erased histories, and purposefully deceptive maps designed to protect treasures or disguise strategic locations. Others expose invisible forces, like the politics, secrecy, and bias that quietly shape the way we see the world.
This isn't just about geography; it's about influence, intention, and what gets left off the page. If you've ever wondered who decides what makes it onto the map (and who doesn't), this one's worth a look.
Secret Maps runs at the British Library from 24 October 2025 to 18 January 2026, with tickets starting from £20 (concessions available). You can book via the British Library website.