EP 63: Mistakes On Maps (with Tom Paper) Shelf Life #17

As the Library of Mistakes prepares to host its first Edinburgh Fringe performance, we speak to the show's creator, Tom Paper. Mistakes On Maps is a witty, visually immersive journey through 20 historical maps, each featuring a fascinating flaw. Encounter sea monsters in the 1539 Carta Marina, the phantom continent of Terra Australis, California drawn as an island, the Open Polar Sea, canals on Mars, and the Mountains of Kong. Were these errors accidents, ambition, propaganda or fear of empty space? Along the way, see how trade, empire, faith and imagination bent geography. Through projected maps, story and music, this show reveals how cartographers got it wrong, and what their errors reveal about us.This episode was presented by Fraser Allen & Leila JohnstonMistakes On Maps runs every day at the Library of Mistakes in Edinburgh from 7-30 August 2026 inclusive (except 17, 18, 24 and 25 August).For more information and tickets, see: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/mistakes-on-maps