A visit to Quito wouldn’t be complete without exploring Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, or the Middle of the World City. This iconic destination marks the approximate location of the equator, where the Northern and Southern Hemispheres meet. It’s a place where science, history, and culture come together to create a one-of-a-kind experience.
Middle of the World – A Landmark of Latitude
As we arrived, the towering Equatorial Monument immediately caught our attention. Standing proudly against the backdrop of the Andes, it symbolizes the geographical and cultural significance of the equator. The monument is crowned with a globe and surrounded by stunning gardens, shops and attractions.
Of course, we couldn’t resist taking the quintessential photo with one foot in each hemisphere—a surreal feeling knowing we were straddling the imaginary line that divides the Earth! The monument is an enlarged (3x) replica of the original monument placed nearby in the 1930s. Like the original, it is not in the correct location! Both monuments missed the equator (by as much as 240 meters). Luckily, we were able to visit both monuments as well as the actual equator.
Exploring the Middle of the World Museum
Inside the monument, the Ethnographic Museum showcases the diverse cultures of Ecuador, from the coastal regions to the highlands and the Amazon. Through fascinating exhibits of traditional clothing, tools, and artifacts, we gained a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich heritage.
The museum also highlights the history of the equatorial measurements, including the French Geodesic Mission of the 18th century, which was crucial in determining the exact location of the equator.
The Intiñan Museum: Science and Fun
Just a short walk away is the Intiñan Solar Museum, which provides a more interactive experience with hands-on experiments that demonstrate the unique physics of the equator.
We balanced an egg on a nail, watched water spin in different directions on either side of the equator, and even tested our strength in equatorial gravity challenges. Whether or not the science is entirely accurate, it was a fun and educational experience that added an element of playfulness to our visit.
Shopping and Local Flavors
The Middle of the World City also features charming shops selling artisan crafts, souvenirs, and locally made goods. We enjoyed the chocolate museum where we purchased (yet more) chocolate along with a very nice chocolate porter, which we enjoyed inside the shop.
For lunch, we enjoyed traditional Ecuadorian dishes at one of the local eateries. Sampling Cuy (Guinea pig), Ceviche and Carne Asada while overlooking the iconic monument was a perfect way to recharge. For the record, the cuy was disgusting. The carne asada had a nice flavor but was really tough. Definitely not my favorite meal in Ecuador, but also the most adventurous.
Tips for Visiting Ciudad Mitad del Mundo
- Plan your time: Allocate at least half a day to explore both the monument and nearby museums. We didn’t allow ourselves enough time.
- Wear comfortable shoes: There’s plenty of walking to do, especially if you want to visit both the official monument and the Intiñan Museum.
- Capture the moment: Bring a camera for those must-have equator photos!
- Learn the history: Take time to read about the French Geodesic Mission and the equatorial experiments for a more enriching experience.
- Avoid the Cuy: Maybe your tastes run different than mine, but it was just not good.
Final Thoughts
Our visit to the Middle of the World City was both entertaining and enlightening. It’s a place where history, culture, and science come together, making it a highlight of our time in Quito.
Standing at the center of the Earth, with one foot in each hemisphere, was a truly unforgettable experience. If you’re visiting Quito, Ciudad Mitad del Mundo is a must-see destination that offers something for everyone—whether you’re a history buff, a science enthusiast, or simply looking to check a unique location off your bucket list! And make sure you seek out the real equator for the off-the-beaten path version.
