Topographic Map of Switzerland

The Atlas Suisse map series consisted of 16 sheets, was produced by a copperplate or intaglio printing process, and depicted the whole of Switzerland at a scale of 1:120,000.

The Dufour Map was reproduced by an engraving print process, initially by intaglio, and later (from 1905) by flat plate impression.

This so-called "Swiss style" depiction received much praise, and earned the Topographic Bureau several international awards.

Some surveys for the map had been conducted by the Cantons, but the federal government had made its contribution by tracking data in mountainous areas with difficult access.

Different editions of the Dufour Map give a reliable overview of demographic trends in Switzerland, the extension of settlements and significant changes in the territory, such as the damming of rivers, the construction of roads, and railway development.