The title is fun, I know (and I love Lords Of The Rings).

Mapstraction has kind of a similar logic. It provides a common API for the major mapping providers. This means, when you code with Mapstraction API, you can easily switch from Yahoo Maps to Google maps or else.

You can even use this power to create creative solutions like this syncronizing maps example:

 JavaScript Map API

Some features of this mapping API:

  • Support for 9 major mapping providers
  • Point, Line, Polygon support
  • Image overlay
  • GeoRSS and KML feed import
  • Geocoding of addresses
  • Driving directions