Rare Spanish Armada maps to be put on display for the first time

Ten rare maps that chart the defeat of the Spanish Armada in the 16th Century are going on show in Portsmouth for the first time.

The Royal Navy's victory in August 1588 is seen as a defining moment in the UK’s national and naval history.

The Armada maps were first drawn in 1589 and are thought to be the earliest surviving representations of the campaign.

They show the defence of England’s shores against invasion by the Spanish fleet, consisting of 141 ships and 24,000 men.

They had aimed to kill Queen Elizabeth I and replace her on the throne with King Philip II of Spain.

The maps will be displayed by the National Museum of the Royal Navy at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

Professor Dominic Tweddle, director general of the museum, said: "The defeat of the Armada was a turning point in forging our nation’s identity and the maps act as a powerful commemoration of this pivotal naval battle.

"The exhibition is hugely significant, it is an opportunity for us to link navy to nation and educate future generations about the origins of the Royal Navy as a protector of an island nation."

The Armada Maps National Treasures exhibition runs from 24 June to 8 August.

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