Corto Maltese is an Italian adventure comic series created by writer and artist Hugo Pratt. Set in the early 20th century, the series follows the adventures of the enigmatic sailor Corto Maltese as he travels across the globe, encountering historical figures and getting involved in political intrigues. Corto Maltese is known for its atmospheric artwork, poetic storytelling, and exploration of themes such as colonialism, war, and identity. The series has been highly influential in the world of European comics and has gained a cult following.