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Background Maps with Contextily

Explore how to use the Contextily Python package to add background basemaps to vector maps created with GeoPandas and Matplotlib. Learn to select appropriate map sources, synchronize coordinate reference systems, and control zoom levels to improve spatial data visualization with geographic context.

Introduction

Context in maps is fundamental to conveying spatial information effectively. In vector-based maps, this is particularly crucial. Vector maps, while offering precise geometric representations and attributes of geographic features, may sometimes seem abstract and difficult to interpret without a clear reference or background. This is where basemaps come in, serving as a visual aid to help users understand the geographical context in which these features exist. They provide familiar landmarks and elements, such as roads, water bodies, and administrative boundaries, that make the map more recognizable and easier to understand.

To fulfill this necessity, Contextily is a Python package that was specifically designed to add geographic ...