Manhattan's Size Compared to Other Famous Islands Around the World
Manhattan, an iconic borough of New York City, stands out not just for its architectural marvels but also for its compact land area. Covering a mere 59.1 square kilometers, Manhattan is a remarkable example of urban density. To better understand its size in a broader context, let's compare it to some of the world's most famous and expansive islands. This article delves into the land areas of Manhattan and other renowned islands, offering a fascinating perspective on land size and island geography.
Manhattan: The Compact Heart of New York
Manhattan is a densely populated island, with a land area of 59.1 square kilometers (22.9 square miles). This territory, which has hosted the development of one of the world's leading financial hubs, is notably smaller compared to many other major islands globally.
Comparing Manhattan to Other Notable Islands
1. Palm Island, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Palm Island, also known as Palm Jumeirah, is an artificial island off the coast of the United Arab Emirates. It covers an area of approximately 7.35 square kilometers (2.82 square miles), making it a compact artificial island. While it can be considered expansive compared to smaller natural islands, it is significantly smaller than Manhattan. Palm Island is designed to be a luxury residential and leisure destination, featuring landmarks such as the Burj Al Arab hotel. The uniqueness of this island lies in its sprawling man-made nature and luxury development, contrasting with the urban density of Manhattan.
2. Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, USA
Martha's Vineyard, located in Massachusetts, USA, boasts an area of about 134.4 square kilometers (51.8 square miles). This island is closer in size to Manhattan, but it has a different character. Known for its natural beauty, Martha's Vineyard offers a mix of rolling hills, sandy dunes, and miles of beaches. Unlike the densely built-up Manhattan, Martha's Vineyard is primarily residential and tourist-oriented, making its larger size more suitable for recreational and family activities.
3. Malta, an Island Country
Malta is an island country in the Mediterranean Sea, consisting of three main islands: Malta, Gozo, and Comino. The total land area of Malta is approximately 316 square kilometers (122 square miles). Malta presents a different perspective on land size, being a fully developed and heavily urbanized nation. The densely populated, historically rich islands of Malta offer a contrast to the more spacious, mainly rural nature of Martha's Vineyard, while still being several times the size of Manhattan.
Conclusion: Exploring the Diverse Realm of Island Geography
From the dense, urban landscape of Manhattan to the expansive and varied environments of Palm Island, Martha's Vineyard, and Malta, each island tells a unique story. Manhattan's compact 59.1 square kilometers may seem small compared to these other islands, but its urban density and dynamic energy make it an unparalleled world city.
Understanding the scale and characteristics of different islands provides insights into the variety of island geography and land use. Whether you're comparing natural landscapes or man-made environments, each island offers a distinct slice of the world, making them all the more interesting and valuable for exploration.