Topographic maps are generally recognized by their use of contour lines, which are two line segments that connect, often representing elevation on topographic maps. They are characterized by large-scale detail and relief, thus having a tendency to show natural and man-made features. Topographic maps can be considered complex in the sense that that each single 'map' is really a section - a part of the greater picture. These sections, called map sheets, are pieced together to form the whole map. Topographic maps are often defined by what they are not - they are distinct from planimetric maps because they show vertical features (i.e, elevation); and they are distinct from thematic maps because they focus on the bigger picture, rather than a specific topic. Generally, a map is considered topographic if it accurately displays cultural and natural features, and is detail oriented.
The topographic map featured on this post is from Wikipedia (8 October 2008), and shows a section of the Nablus area (West Bank), with contour lines at 100-m intervals.
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