The Early Church Map

A hand drawn map of the Pentarchy and the Ecumenical Councils, circa AD 800

Starting at $29

  • Printed on durable Parchtone paper

  • Available in 17×11” and 34×24”

  • Historically researched Christian symbolism and geography

  • Hand drawn by Joshua Stolarz

This is more than just a map of geography. It’s a visual journey through the history of the church.

When you step inside an old church, the beauty isn’t accidental. We marvel at the stained glass, the carved woodwork, the paintings, and the architecture. Then we learn why the crosses are shaped the way they are, why the baptistry stands at the entrance to the nave, or why the illuminated windows tell the stories that they do. The more we learn, the richer the experience becomes, and the more our hearts are drawn upward to the One behind it all.

As someone who loves studying the way God has worked throughout history, I wanted this map to reflect that as faithfully as I could. That meant researching not only the geography, but the language, symbolism, and artistic traditions Christians have been weaving into their art for nearly two thousand years.

My hope was to capture a small piece of that rich heritage. Not simply to create something beautiful, but something that points to Christ, invites people to ask questions, starts conversations, and encourages others to explore the remarkable story of the church.

- Josh Stolarz

★★★★★

The map is beautiful. Good paper weight, excellent translation of detail, and it came in perfect condition

- Patrick -

Art Print Details

  • 17”×11” and 34”x22” Art Print Reproduction

  • Printed on durable Parchtone Paper

  • Hand-drawn by Joshua Stolarz

SHIPPING & GUARANTEE

  • Only shipping to the United States at this time

  • Shipping costs are calculated at checkout.

  • Returns are accepted only for items that arrive damaged or have a defect.

You can find full details regarding our guarantee HERE.

The Stories Behind the Symbols

Close-up of the Rome section from the Early Church History Map, featuring a hand drawn illustration of Italy with a detailed processional cross marking Rome.

The Vatican Cross is a sixth century gift from Justin II, Emperor of Constantinople to the church in Rome. At its center is believed to rest a fragment of the True Cross, while the inscription celebrates not earthly power, but Christ’s victory over sin and death.

The purpose behind such an ornate cross is to magnify the beauty of the One who triumphed upon it. Every jewel and inscription proclaims Christ as the victorious King.

Close-up of the Constantinople section from the Early Church History Map, featuring a hand drawn Chi Rho symbol marking the city alongside Nicaea and Chalcedon.

On the eve of a decisive battle, Constantine the Great had a dream where God spoke to him in a dream. He showed him a sign in the sky, the Chi-Rho, the first two letters of the name of Christ. He was said, “By this sign, conquer.” The next day Constantine painted the sign on the shields of his men, and they fought to victory.

Not long after, Constantine issued the Edict of Milan, legalizing Christianity in the Roman empire and changing the course of history.

Close up of the Early Church Map showing Antioch highlighted with a magnifying glass, alongside Constantinople, Jerusalem, and Alexandria on a parchment style historical map.
Hand drawn Early Church Map by Josh Stolarz, depicting the Mediterranean world around AD 800, highlighting the Pentarchy, the Seven Ecumenical Councils, and major Christian centers including Rome, Constantinople, Antioch, Alexandria, and Jerusalem.