Cities, towns, or urban areas are clusters of buildings, roads, and vehicles where people live together. Globally, there are over 4 million cities and towns, with about 19,500 being recognized as major cities. In India alone, there are more than 4,000 cities. While urban lifestyles are generally similar, some cities stand out for their unique qualities. This video explores some of these exceptional cities, each known for its distinctiveness.
Unique Cities:
Coober Pedy, Australia
Located underground, this town in Australia has houses, cinemas, bars, malls, and hotels beneath the surface. The area was initially an opal mining site, and after the mines were exhausted, people started building homes underground. The underground living spaces remain cool in summer and warm in winter without the need for air conditioning or heating.
Car-Free City, Pontevedra, Spain
Pontevedra is a car-free city where residents prefer walking or cycling. The initiative began 21–22 years ago to address traffic congestion and pollution. Today, the city is almost pollution-free and pedestrian-friendly, with maps at intersections guiding people on walking or cycling times to various destinations.
Auroville, Tamil Nadu, India
Auroville is a unique community in India that promotes equality, spirituality, and harmony. It has no religion, caste, laws, or politics. Residents work on projects they love, creating a cashless society with zero crime. Established in 1968 by Mirra Alfassa (known as “The Mother”), it is considered a human experiment and is recognized by UNESCO for its contributions to humanity.
Garbage City, Manshiyat Naser, Egypt
Known as “Garbage City,” this area near Cairo processes waste brought in from various locations. The streets, homes, and public spaces are often filled with recyclables, making it a hub for waste management and recycling.
The Villages, Florida, USA
A retirement city designed exclusively for the elderly, offering a peaceful environment with no criminal activity. It functions as a large-scale old-age home where retirees can live in tranquility.
Naked Village, Britain
A small village called Spielplatz in Britain is home to residents who live without clothing as part of their lifestyle. Founded in 1929, the community believes in staying connected to nature and has embraced this way of living since its inception.
Umoja Village, Kenya
This village is exclusively for women, founded by women escaping male oppression and abuse. Men are not allowed to live there. Women earn their livelihood through jewelry-making, farming, and livestock rearing, creating a safe and self-sufficient community.
The Mask City, Japan
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, a city in Japan gained recognition for its strict adherence to mask-wearing. Though details were not fully covered, it symbolizes how the global pandemic influenced urban habits.a
Conclusion
These cities demonstrate that urban areas can be tailored to unique lifestyles, needs, and beliefs, showcasing human creativity and adaptability. From underground towns to car-free spaces and inclusive communities, each city tells a story of innovation and resilience.