Latitude lines are the parallels which cut across the Earth traveling north and south from the Equator. Because it is latitude which determines temperature and climate, the Earth is divided into three (3) zones, the Tropics, the Temperate Zone, and the Polar regions. The Tropics are defined as the area between 23 1/2 degrees North Latitude and 23 1/2 degrees South Latitude. The temperatures here are always warm and there are no seasons. The Temperate Zone extends both north and south from 23 1/2 degrees to 66 1/2 degrees — this is where most of the world’s population lives.

It is interesting to look at world cities from the perspective of their latitude. It is expected that cities at or near the same latitude will have a similar climate but the results are somewhat surprising when one looks at the world this way. This series will list cities worldwide which are found along the same line of latitude. Keep in mind that the distance between any two lines of latitude is approximately 69 miles. Some of the cities in the series are several degrees apart but are still considered the same approximate latitude. For those cities which I have visited, I have included a photo and a short description.

Chicago, IL, USA — The juggernaut of the American Midwest, Chicago has one of the world’s most beautiful skylines.

Water Tower

Rome, Italy — Italy’s “Eternal City” is one of the world’s most historic and interesting places.

Piazza Tritona

Barcelona, Spain — Spain’s second largest city is a marvelous destination with splendid architecture and a vibrant Barrio Gotic.

Sagrada Familia

Istanbul, Turkey — Once known as Constantinople, this amazing city sits at the crossroads of East and West; it actually straddles Europe and Asia.

Blue Mosque