The 176 pages of detailed maps in this large-format flagship atlas have been fully revised for 2004-2005, to detail all recent political developments and name and border changes. Described by the Daily Mail as clearer than The Times, the unique combination of relief colouring and hill-shading gives an exceptional portrayal of landforms. Philips Atlas of the World includes a highly informative 48-page Introduction to World Geography packed with maps, charts, diagrams and text explaining key world themes such as climate, geology, trade, agriculture, industry, population and health. Also featured are urban area and city centre maps for 67 of the worlds largest and most economically important cities, including all major capitals, accompanied by a comprehensive index, plus a 16-page Images of Earth section, which shows spectaculat satellite views of 16 major cities and regions across the globe. The 32-page A-Z Gazetteer of Nations, providing key facts and figures for every sovereign state, and illustrated with flags and locator maps, has also been fully revised and updated for this edition. Topical maps are provided for Regions in the News including Iraq, Afghanistan, Israel, Kashmir and Colombia. The 75,000-name index, including geographical features and historical place names as well as towns and cities, gives full latitude/longitude co-ordinates and letter-figure grid references. A Geographical Glossary, with over 1000 entries, explains the derivations of many unfamiliar place names - eg wadi = dry watercourse; jabel = mountain range The most comprehensive and authoritative world atlas available in its class, Philips Atlas of the World is recommended for home, college, business and library use.