Geographical basis of navigation along the Velebit Channel according to 1639 Senjski peljar

Abstract

The paper analyses Senjski peljar pilot book from 1639. It was the first pilot written in Croatian and also the first nautical and geographical description of the coast along the foot of the Velebit Mountain from Senj to Novsko ždrilo. Senjski peljar provided seamen with a concise outline of basic geographic characteristics relevant for terrestrial navigation planning along the Velebit Littoral. The research of the original pilot and its comparative analysis with the descriptions of the Velebit Channel in other old pilot books and cartographic works have determined historical significance of several sheltered coves in the area and their importance in terms of supply and sea trading attributed to certain natural resources at the time when Senjski peljar was written.