GPS technology has determined that a popular monument near this capital was built around 800 feet too far to the south
On the May 14, 2025 episode of Jeopardy, the Final Jeopardy clue came from the category “South American Cities.” The clue read: GPS technology has determined that a popular monument near this capital was built around 800 feet too far to the south.
https://youtu.be/8aqF9EWItpM
What is Quito?
The monument in question is the famous “Mitad del Mundo” or “Middle of the World” monument, located near Quito, Ecuador. This structure marks what was long believed to be the equator’s precise location. However, modern GPS readings have since shown that the actual equator line lies roughly 240 meters—or around 800 feet—to the north of the monument. Despite this discrepancy, the site remains one of Ecuador’s most visited attractions, symbolizing the country’s unique position straddling the northern and southern hemispheres.
Why the Monument Was Misplaced
The original measurements for the equator’s position were taken by French geodesic expeditions in the 18th century. Using the best tools available at the time, these scientists came remarkably close to the actual location. However, they did not have access to modern satellite-based GPS systems, which have dramatically improved geographic accuracy. As a result, their calculations led to the construction of the equatorial monument just slightly off its true mark.
Today, visitors to the area can stand on a line that was once thought to be the precise equator, while a newer nearby museum allows tourists to see demonstrations on the real equatorial line as confirmed by GPS. The discrepancy has become more of a curiosity than a criticism, adding another layer of interest to the destination.
Cultural Significance of the Location
Quito itself is the capital city of Ecuador and one of the highest capitals in the world, sitting at over 9,000 feet above sea level. It has a rich colonial history and was one of the first World Cultural Heritage Sites designated by UNESCO in 1978. The equatorial monument just outside the city is a cultural landmark that blends scientific achievement, national pride, and tourism. It remains an enduring symbol of Ecuador’s geographical uniqueness.
While the “Mitad del Mundo” may not lie exactly on the equator, the monument continues to draw visitors with its historical significance and photogenic appeal. The entire site, including museums and exhibits, offers a deeper understanding of early geodesic missions and Ecuador’s role in global scientific exploration.
Trivia and Jeopardy Connections
This clue is a textbook example of Jeopardy‘s love for blending geography with modern science. The use of GPS technology to correct earlier geographical assumptions serves as a reminder of how science evolves, and how cultural landmarks can retain their importance even when new data emerges. Contestants had to connect the dots between the clue’s reference to a “capital” and knowledge of South American geography, which made for an interesting and educational Final Jeopardy moment.
The question highlighted not only a fascinating scientific correction but also the way national identity and tourism can intersect with evolving data. It’s a perfect demonstration of how Jeopardy encourages players and viewers alike to reexamine what they think they know—with a little help from satellites.