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An Index Map, to the Antiquities of England and Wales, engraved by F. Vivares and published by S. Hooper in 1787, serves as a guide to the locations of notable ancient structures within the countries. Illustrating the exact positions of various significant buildings detailed in its accompanying work (not present here), the map stands as a visual testament to the rich tapestry of England and Wales's past, emphasizing the breadth of historic landmarks across the lands.

The latter part of the 18th century was marked by a growing interest in the British Isles' history and heritage. As the Age of Enlightenment ushered in a new wave of intellectual curiosity, scholars and enthusiasts alike sought to explore and document the remnants of ancient civilizations and historic epochs that peppered the English and Welsh landscapes. This map was conceived within this zeitgeist, aiming to provide an easily accessible visual reference to the myriad antiquities that bore witness to the ages gone by.

The precision and detail with which F. Vivares engraved this map underscore the cartographic expertise of the era. Every landmark is plotted, offering readers a clear perspective on the distribution and concentration of historical structures throughout England and Wales as understood at the time. Beyond mere geographical representation, the map serves as an invitation to delve deeper into the stories and histories of each pinpointed location.

Published by S. Hooper in 1787, the map also stands as an exemplar of the period's publishing ventures dedicated to promoting historical knowledge. Such publications sought to bridge the gap between academic scholarship and public interest, making vast repositories of historical information accessible to a wider audience. In this vein, An Index Map, to the Antiquities of England and Wales is not merely a cartographic tool but an embodiment of the era's passion for historical exploration and discovery.