Where East and West Meet

Here at the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, the East is divided from the West. This is the location from which the Prime Meridian is measured. Since 1884, this spot marked 0 degrees Longitude.

Actually, modern reference systems have caused the Prime Meridian to shift. These systems mark 0 degrees about 102.5 meters East of the traditional line in Greenwich.

The observatory was commissioned by King Charles II in 1675. It was the first purpose built scientific research facility in Britain. It is no longer used for its original purpose but is a museum.