Abstract
Revisions of achievements of empirical studies in cartography focused on describing main research themes and diagnosing challenges to be approached. Intriguingly, there is no analysis of maps used as a stimuli in these experiments. In order to fill existing scarcity, this paper presents the analysis of the content of four journals affiliated by the International Cartographic Association. Four features (map medium, reactiveness, method of cartographic presentation, users familiarity with the depicted data) are described based on 103 papers presenting empirical studies. Types of maps were identified in scope of every feature. Most frequently used ones are displayed on the screen, non-interactive, depicting qualitative data and area unfamiliar for the participant of the study.