In Europe during the 19-21 centuries mapping technology have continuously improved to meet the needs of cartographers and map users. First maps in Europe were made manually with brushes and parchment, and hence varied in quality and were limited in distribution. Introduction of compass, printing-houses, telescope, sextant, quadrant and vernier made it possible to create more accurate maps of Europe and make accurate reproductions of topographic maps.

Advances in photochemical technology, such as lithographic and photochemical processes allowed creating non-distorting shape of european maps that contained fine details and were resistant to moisture and wear. This also eliminated the need for engraving, which reduced the time of topographic maps reproduction.

In the middle and second half of the 20s century, advances in electronic technology led to a new revolution in the field of cartography. Such devices as plotters, printers, scanners, computers, along with the visualization, imaging, spatial analysis, made the production of maps easier and, in particular, allowed quick production of maps with different specifications.