Geographical coordinates are essential for identifying any point on Earth. This is possible, as is well known, thanks to a "network" of meridians and parallels. Among these, the Prime Meridian that passes through the English city of Greenwich stands out. Not everyone knows that there is also a city in Italy crossed by a meridian. This city is Termoli, in Molise: it is located at the intersection of the 42nd parallel north and the 15th meridian east, making it an important reference point for Central European Time. This is why Termoli is called the "Greenwich of Italy."
Why is the 15th meridian east important?
The 15th meridian east is of fundamental importance as it serves as one of the reference lines for calculating time in Europe. This meridian is used to determine Central European Solar Time, which, in turn, corresponds to the UTC+1 time zone.
Additionally, the 15th meridian east crosses several countries. In Europe, it passes through Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Poland, Germany, the Czech Republic, Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, and finally, Italy, where it passes through Termoli. It continues towards the island of Vulcano in Sicily, passing near Mount Etna.
Where does the meridian pass in Termoli?
Termoli is crossed by the 15th meridian, which intersects with the 42nd parallel in the centre of the town. This point is located near the beach, not far from the Svevo Castle. There is a small monument by the roadside marking the exact point of the intersection. The road is called Viale Marinai d'Italia, but it is much easier to look for the geographical coordinates. Specifically, 42° north, 15° east.
42nd Parallel North: Where it passes in Italy
On the other hand, the 42nd parallel north crosses several Italian regions. While the reference point on the Adriatic is Termoli, on the Tyrrhenian Sea, the parallel passes through Santa Severa, along the Lazio coast. Other locations it touches include Corsica, Spain (just north of Girona), the United States, Canada, Japan, China, and North Korea. It’s no coincidence that the name of the 42nd parallel was chosen for a novel by John Dos Passos, as it cuts right through the United States.
Some curiosities about Termoli
Termoli is not only the Greenwich of Italy, but it also boasts other rather unique features. The historic centre is characterised by narrow cobbled streets, including the famous "rejecelle," the narrowest street in Molise and surely one of the narrowest in Italy. This passage measures only 41 centimetres in width, while its length is just 7.88 metres.
Living in Termoli
The town, which enjoys a privileged position on the Adriatic coast, is not only a tourist destination but also offers a peaceful and welcoming environment to live in. Its beaches allow for many outdoor activities, especially during the warmer months. Additionally, Termoli is well-connected thanks to its strategic location along the A14 motorway and the Adriatic railway line, making travel to major Italian cities easy.
The city is also home to numerous cultural events and festivals that enliven the town throughout the year. Moreover, the cost of living in Termoli is generally lower compared to other Adriatic coastal locations. If you're considering living in Termoli, all that’s left is to check out the houses for sale or rent on idealista, or for shorter stays, explore the holiday homes on Rentalia.
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