“ Eratosthenes argued that accurate mapping, even if in two dimensions only, relies upon upon the establishment of correct
linear measurements. He is sometimes incorrectly credited with the introduction of a mannequin that divides a spherical Earth
into five zones: one scorching, two temperate, and
two cold-northern and southern. Pomponius Mela is unique among historical
geographers in that, after dividing the earth into 5 zones, of which two
solely had been habitable, he asserts the existence of
antichthones, inhabiting the southern temperate zone inaccessible to the folk of the
northern temperate regions from the unbearable heat of the intervening torrid belt.
In the case of Africa, he believed that, apart from the small stretch of
land in the vicinity of Suez, the continent was in truth surrounded by water.
His zero meridian ran through the westernmost land recognized to him, the Isles
of the Blessed round the placement of the Canary or Cape Verde Islands. ”