German chronicle of contemporary history, published from 1618 to 1738, in 21 volumes. This monumental work was begun by J.P. Abelin (1600-1634) and continued by a number of later editors, among them Matthäus Merian the Elder (1593-1650), who also added copperplate illustrations.
A digitised version of the Theatrum Europaeum is available at: http://digbib.bibliothek.uni-augsburg.de/1/index.html. An overview of illustrations in that edition is available at http://digbib.bibliothek.uni-augsburg.de/1/bilder/02_IV_13_2_0026_01_thumb01.html Marvel at the detailed maps of European battles and sieges of the 17th century! See the copperplate engraving of the Defenestration in Prague! Delight in the portraits of contemporary movers and shakers (like Frederick V, the Elector Palatine)!