Metropolises vs Megalopolises: What sets them apart?

Urbanization has been on the rise for the last few decades across the world. The growth of cities and urban areas has been increasing at an unprecedented rate. With this rapid increase in urbanization comes the formation of bigger and more complex urban areas. Metropolises and megalopolises are two such urban areas formed by the merging of cities or towns. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two types of urban areas.

The Basics of Metropolises

Metropolis is a Greek word that means \"mother city.\" It is an urban area with a population of over 1 million people. Metropolises have a dense population and a high degree of economic growth, which leads to the creation of job opportunities. Most metropolises are famous for their cultural, commercial, educational, and political importance. They are often the center of the country's economic, social, and political activities.

Examples of metropolises include Tokyo, New York, and Paris. These cities have a population of over 10 million people and are home to several prominent universities, landmark buildings, and museums. In addition, metropolises have excellent infrastructure, including transportation, communication, and healthcare facilities.

Megalopolises: A New Age of Urbanization

Megalopolis is a term coined by French geographer Jean Gottmann in 1957. A megalopolis is a group of two or more metropolises that have grown together, forming one huge urban area. The merging of these cities creates a vast concentration of population, culture, and economic activities.

Examples of megalopolises include the Northeast megalopolis in the United States, which includes Boston, New York City, and Washington D.C. The European megalopolis, which covers the area from London to Milan, is also another example.

Differences Between Metropolis and Megalopolis

To summarize, several key differences distinguish metropolis and megalopolis:

Size and Population: The key difference between a metropolis and megalopolis is size and population. Metropolises are urban areas with a population of over 1 million, while megalopolises have populations of over 10 million people.

No. Of Cities: Metropolises are generally a single city, while megalopolises are formed by the joining of two or more cities.

Level of Development: In terms of development, metropolises are more developed than megalopolises. Metropolises are home to more advanced infrastructure and are often the centers of economic, social, and political activity. On the other hand, megalopolises are seen as the next step in the evolution of urbanization and are still in the process of development.

While there are several notable differences between metropolis and megalopolis, both these types of urban areas play a vital role in the world's economy and development. Whether a metropolis or a megalopolis, these cities are a symbol of human innovation, economic prowess, and progress.