Mapping the Distribution of Towns and Cities in Europe with Saintly Names

The Holy Map of Europe: Exploring the Distribution of Saintly Place Names

In a continent steeped in history and tradition, the presence of saintly place names is a fascinating reflection of Europe’s religious heritage. A recent map created by Polish infographic producers Biqdata sheds light on the distribution of towns and cities in Europe whose names start with “Saint” or the equivalent in local languages.

France, known for its Christian heritage, boasts the highest number of saintly place names in Europe, with a staggering 43% of the total. From Saint-Denis near Paris to Saint-Laurent-du-Var in Provence, France is dotted with reminders of its religious past. Spain follows closely behind, with a concentration of saintly names in regions like Catalonia and Galicia.

Italy ranks third on the list, with saintly place names scattered across the country, while Portugal and Greece also make appearances in the top rankings. Surprisingly, traditionally Catholic countries like the Czech Republic, Poland, and Ireland have relatively few saintly place names.

On the other hand, northern countries like Norway, Finland, Sweden, and Denmark have only a handful of saintly place names, reflecting a trend of scarcity in regions influenced by the Reformation. The map also highlights the unique distribution of saintly names in countries like Russia, Croatia, and Albania.

Overall, the map offers a fascinating glimpse into the religious geography of Europe, showcasing the diverse ways in which saintly place names have left their mark on the continent. From the pilgrimage destination of Santiago de Compostela to the coastal towns of Portugal, each saintly name tells a story of faith and history.

As we explore the map and uncover the hidden treasures of Europe’s holy places, we are reminded of the rich tapestry of cultures and traditions that make the continent a truly unique and diverse landscape.