The Naming of Atlas Mountains: A Mythical Origin
The Atlas Mountains, located in North Africa, have a rich history that spans centuries. Comprising of a range of mountains that stretch for over 2,500 km across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia, it’s fascinating how the mountains got their name. In this article, we’ll explore the origin of the name “Atlas Mountains.”
Mythical Interpretation of the Name Atlas Mountains
The ancient Greeks tell us that the name “Atlas Mountains” originates from the Titan Atlas, who was a mythical figure said to have carried the world on his shoulders. According to Greek mythology, Atlas led a revolt against the gods and was eventually punished by Zeus. His punishment was to bear the weight of the heavens on his shoulders for eternity.
It’s thought that the Atlas Mountains got their name due to their massive size and because they were the tallest mountains in North Africa, making them seem like they bore a significant weight – just like Atlas in the myth.
The Historical Naming of Atlas Mountains
Another theory behind the naming of the Atlas Mountains is a historical one. In 1595, the Dutch cartographer, Willem Janszoon Blaeu, created a map of North Africa and named the mountain range “Mountains of the Moon.” Other cartographers of the time also used this name, which led to the Atlas Mountains being referred to as “Montes Lunae” in Latin.
It wasn’t until the 17th century that the name Atlas Mountains became more commonly used. Historians aren’t entirely sure where the name Atlas came from in this instance, but it’s thought it might have come from the Berber word “adlas” meaning “mountain.” It’s also possible that the name Atlas was chosen simply because of its association with Ancient Greek mythology.
A Mix of Myth and Reality
Ultimately, the naming of the Atlas Mountains seems to be a combination of both myth and history – a mix of Willem Janszoon Blaeu’s map and Ancient Greek mythology. Today, the mountains continue to be a crucial part of North African culture and are home to various indigenous communities who rely on them for their livelihoods.
The Atlas Mountains: A Symbol of Strength
The Atlas Mountains, with their vastness and their high peaks, continue to symbolize strength and resilience. They are a significant attraction for hikers and climbers, and tourists from all over the world come to experience their beauty firsthand. The history and myths behind the naming of the Atlas Mountains only add to their mystique and make them a fascinating part of our world.
