A period of almost 150 years (since the middle of 19th century until the present) was analysed in the second phase of the students’ project studying old maps of Liberec. In the submitted paper the problems of usage graphical devices that are used for displaying urban environment and its close neighbourhood are explored. Consequently, the chosen places that are different or interesting in particular ways are described with use of six old maps and the present map sequenced in a chronological line. The places are characterised through the use of the old maps and attributes of the places are described via statements elicited from the system of map symbols displayed in the surrounding of the particular place. Afterwards the statements are verified by comparison of information received from maps and secondary historical materials and the current situation of the urban places. The conclusion presents the enumeration of positives and negatives of usage of old maps for characterization of geographical space concept in time.