This view of Montpelier is from the 'Topographia Gallia' by Martin Zeiler published 1655-61. It formed just one volume of the 'Topographiae' series which began in 1642 with a volume on Switzerland and extended to much of Europe. The final work covers Italy in 1688. All of the plates were the work of Matthaus Merian (1593-1650). Born in Basle, Switzerland, he was one of the finest engravers of the seventeenth century. He was renowned for his town plans and views. He married the daughter of Theodore de Bry. Montpellier stands 10 kilometres form the Mediterranean coast of southern France. The Gothic cathedral dates from 1364. Shirley (2004) G.Meri 22a.