Mediterranean Sea surrounded on all sides by land. One glance at the map is enough to agree with such a judgment. This was also known ancient Greek scientists.

Features of geographical location and climate

mediterranean sea named for a reason, from all sides it touches with continents.

Nowhere else in the world has one been found large indoor pool, which is connected to the ocean only by a tiny, for such a scale, jumper - Strait of Gibraltar.

Sea in your own way geographic location located between: Asia, , Africa.

Total area - 2,500 square kilometers. The maximum depth is 5 121 meters.

It is connected by channels and straits with, red And Seas of Marmara.

Concerning bottom topography, then he has all typical for the sea peculiarities:

1. continental slope carved by canyons;
2. shelf narrow.

Part mediterranean sea are included and inland seas:

• Aegean;
• Alboran;
• Adriatic;
• Balearic;
• Ionian;
• Ligurian;
• Tyrrhenian.

in winter the weather is very changeable, regularly storms happen, and pass heavy rainfall. The temperature drops significantly due to the influence northern winds.

In summer observed here dry fog and not a large number of precipitation.

Tourists come en masse to these places closer to the middle of summer. By July the reservoir warms up +27 degrees.

Countries and islands

to the mediterranean includes vast territories of countries and islands. We give examples of some of them below.

Countries

• . Here are the resorts that are very fond of Russian tourists. Most of the attendants are talking in Russian, which simplifies the rest in a foreign country for our tourists. There are many excellent beaches, inexpensive hotels and one of the best in the world kitchens. The reservoir washes the following major Turkish cities – Mersin, Istanbul, Antalya And Izmir.
• Italy. It is located in the western Mediterranean. People come here to eat delicious pizza And spaghetti and also enjoy warm sun. resort towns considered Rome, Sicily And Milan.
• Spain. Ibiza, Barcelona And Majorca- these are exactly the settlements that travelers come to who want to have fun and have a good time. Especially it concerns youth loving noisy parties.
• Croatia. A country attractive for tourists, first of all, rapidly gaining momentum yachting. To do this, the state allocates multi-million investment.
• Montenegro. Especially worth a look at the beach Ada Bojana. Here the purest sand, which can only be found throughout Adriatic. In addition, tourism is actively developing here among nudists.
• Albania. posh kitchen, beautiful landscapes- this is how local resorts are characterized.

In ancient times, it was believed that the Mediterranean Sea is located in the center of the world. Roman natives called him by inland sea , since all its shores were conquered by them.

• . Here intersect European And Islamic traditions and cultures. This fact attracts tourists. According to statistics, people also come here to see cultural attractions. Particularly popular Casablanca.
• Tunisia. ancient museums, mysterious artifacts, monuments architectures that are memorable markets- at local resorts which are not found miracles.

Islands

Kara is clickable, click on it to enlarge.

Also exists a bunch of large and small Mediterranean islands interesting for travelers. Among them stand out:

• Djerba. Located in the north Africa. Translated from ancient Arabic as "wheat town". The island is mentioned in the famous "Odyssey" Homer. pink flamingos , ancient synagogue, fireballs, local delicious rice- this is simply not to be missed if you find yourself on Djerba.
• Sardinia. Located next to Dagger And Sicily. Archaeologists constantly find various tombs And ziggurats. These are the main attractions of the island.
• Vulcano. Tourists come here to see the numerous volcanic craters.

Scientists have found that because of the catastrophic floods, which occurred 5.3 million years ago, just filling has occurred Mediterranean Sea. For two years such a large water basin was formed! Useful salts and No dangerous poisonous plants And animals.

Can be viewed attractions absolutely different countries the world and get to know them culture. After all, the Mediterranean Sea washes the shores of a good half continents of the world.

In the resorts of the Mediterranean is very developed resort medical infrastructure. Therefore, people suffering diseases of various origins can easily find a place for recreation and recreation.

There are no cons. Unless, of course, the scorching summer sun is not considered a disadvantage.

Perhaps the most amazing and unusual sea on the planet is the Mediterranean. It separates three different but at the same time serves as a meeting place for the most diverse cultures, nations and religions. Which countries are washed by the waters of the Mediterranean Sea and which of them do tourists like to come to most of all? You will learn about this from our most interesting article.

Mediterranean: history and geography of the region

Which countries are washed by the Mediterranean Sea? Which famous cities located on its banks? Before answering these questions, it is necessary to study the geography and history in detail. this region.

Mediterranea is the name of the Mediterranean in English language. This historical region occupies the entire basin of the sea of ​​the same name - the cradle of European and Arab navigation. Ancient Civilizations and powers arose on its shores - Phoenicia, Ancient Hellas, the Roman Empire. The latter once controlled the entire region. Which countries are washed by the Mediterranean Sea today?

The total area of ​​the region, according to various scientists, ranges from 4 to 5 million square kilometers. On its territory, the states of two continents and three parts of the world are located at once.

Which countries are washed by the Mediterranean Sea? Largest cities

Geographically, culturally and mentally, the Mediterranean is divided into three zones (parts): European, Asian and African.

So, which countries are washed by the Mediterranean Sea with its waters? These include 21 independent state. These are Spain, France, Italy, Monaco, Malta (an island republic, located directly in the water area), Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, Greece, Cyprus, Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco.

The unrecognized countries of Palestine and Northern Cyprus, as well as two overseas territories Great Britain (Gibraltar, Akrotiri and Dhekelia).

Which cities are washed by the Mediterranean Sea? On the shores of its water area there are thousands of settlements. Among the largest and most famous cities in the Mediterranean are the following: Barcelona, ​​Marseille, Cannes, Genoa, Napoli, Dubrovnik, Athens, Istanbul, Antalya, Alexandria, Tripoli.

Structure of the Mediterranean: islands, archipelagos, seas

Scientists say that the Mediterranean Sea is nothing more than a relic of an ancient reservoir of a planetary scale - the Tethys Ocean. The Black, Caspian and Aral Seas are also its remnants.

The modern Mediterranean Sea is connected to Atlantic Ocean narrow It passes between two high cliffs, named in ancient times. An interesting fact: in the Mediterranean Sea, hydrographers distinguish a number of more shallow seas. For example, on the maps of this part of the planet you can find the Adriatic, Aegean, Ionian, Cypriot and others.

What is the Mediterranean Sea? Several large Apennine, Pyrenean, deeply protrude into its water area. In the waters of the Mediterranean there are also a large number of islands, different in size. And almost every one of them is very attractive for tourists. It is worth mentioning a few famous islands Mediterranean: Crete, Malta, Sicily, Rhodes, Ibiza and Mallorca.

Synthesis of cultures and peoples

"The sea in the middle of the Earth" - so they called it in antiquity. This geographical toponym, having slightly transformed, has survived to this day. Indeed, it was here that various peoples, cultures, religions and civilizations met over the centuries. As a result, a unique ethno-cultural situation has formed in the Mediterranean.

Already in the third millennium BC, the so-called Aegean civilization arose here, which consisted of several cultures and was complicated by Sumerian influences. Mixed ethnic groups could also be observed within the state of Carthage. Even later, the synthesis of European and Eastern traditions formed here a powerful state - Byzantium.

Thus, cultural syncretism is more than characteristic of the Mediterranean region. It is this fact that makes it extremely popular among tourists from all over the world.

Tourism in the Mediterranean

The countries of the Mediterranean Sea are annually visited by tens of thousands of tourists from different parts of our planet. The attractiveness of this region is enhanced by the fact that it is located entirely within the mild subtropical climate.

Of course, the most The best way to know the Mediterranean is a cruise holiday. It allows you to visit several countries and dozens of interesting cities at once. During such a cruise, the tourist can see firsthand how the monuments are combined with the creations of our time.

In the Mediterranean, tourists most often visit Italy, Spain, Turkey, Greece, Tunisia and Croatia.

Holidays in Turkey

Each of the Mediterranean countries can boast of its first-class resorts. And the most famous resort country in this region is, of course, Turkey!

This state today is very successful in the development of its tourism infrastructure. Resting here is both interesting and very comfortable. Moreover, Türkiye is ready to offer holidays for every taste and wallet size.

Excellent hotels, wonderful beaches, delicious cuisine and acquaintance with the vibrant local culture - this is what awaits every tourist who decides to visit Turkey. In addition, in a very short time you can see many interesting sights here.

Which cities in Turkey are washed by the Mediterranean Sea? This is the largest metropolis of Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya and Mersin.

Spain and Italy

Spain is located in the western part of the region. Tourists appreciate this Mediterranean country for its picturesque landscapes, beautiful nature, sunny first-class resorts and ancient architectural monuments. No cruise, as a rule, bypasses Mallorca and Ibiza. But true connoisseurs of architecture should definitely visit the city of Barcelona.

Another European Mediterranean state is Italy. The land of sun, pizza and spaghetti attracts a huge number of foreign tourists. Lovers of unity with virgin nature go to Sicily, but connoisseurs of cultural and historical monuments go to Rome. Here is also the world-renowned center of haute couture - the city of Milan.

Balkan Mediterranean countries

Five have access to the Mediterranean Sea at once. And all of them have a huge tourist potential.

Croatia is the most attractive of the Balkan countries for tourists. Even 20 years ago it fought for its independence, and today it receives thousands of tourists every year. Vacationers are amazed by the unique cleanliness sea ​​water in Croatia and a huge number of coastal islets.

famous for its great resorts and Montenegro. In particular, the Ada Bojana beach, 3.8 kilometers long, boasts the cleanest sand in the entire Adriatic.

Gradually gaining popularity among tourists and Albania. This country wins due to its beautiful landscapes and extraordinary coloring. Only in Albania you can taste chic dishes local cuisine in an abandoned concrete bunker of the last century!

African Mediterranean countries

Of course, tourists do not bypass the African states of this region. Egypt has long gained fame as a resort and tourist country. But even countries such as Libya and Algeria are actively equipping their resorts and cities for potential vacationers.

Swimming more and more cruise ships and ports in Morocco. This state, located right at the junction of East and West, Islamic and European cultures, a priori arouses interest among tourists.

Tunisia is another state of the Mediterranean, on the territory of which a large number of historical and architectural monuments, museums with ancient artifacts. And after a rich cultural program, the tourist here will also be able to fully relax on one of the beautiful beaches. Another feature of Tunisia is its colorful and colorful markets.

Finally...

Now you know how many countries the Mediterranean Sea washes. There are 21 in total. The Mediterranean is a unique and very attractive region for tourists. First of all, they seek to get to Turkey, Italy, Spain, Tunisia and Croatia. Indeed, in these countries there are a lot of attractions, and the infrastructure is in perfect order.

Countries and resorts of the Mediterranean Sea: maps, photos and videos. Holidays in the Mediterranean, hotels, beaches, water temperature off the coast of resorts.

• Tours for May Worldwide
• Hot tours Worldwide

The cradle of civilizations, the apple of discord and the oldest trade routes - all this is the "sea in the middle of the earth", whose waves wash the shores of 22 states, most of which have managed to derive direct tourist benefits from this remarkable neighborhood. It is on the numerous coasts of the Mediterranean Sea that the most famous world resorts are located, which are stormed every year by millions of vacationers from all over the world. The countries of two continents - Africa and Eurasia, as well as numerous islands and archipelagos provide all the conditions for a full-fledged beach holiday: although not always warm, but quite clear waters, sandy or pebble coast with a remarkably wide coastline, violent fruitful nature and a lot of historical ruins in the vicinity. What is especially pleasant - rest in the Mediterranean bushes can be classified as a budget one: a little more expensive than domestic "souths" and at the same time a whole range of entertainment and so far, alas, a service level that is mostly unattainable at home.

Mediterranean countries

Let's not cheat by saying that the Mediterranean is one of those successful tourism destinations in all respects that can offer almost everything to a demanding tourist, immediately and at affordable prices. What is there on the hospitable shores of the "Middle Sea": both vegetable rest in slippers and a swimsuit, and interesting excursions to the sights of almost any period known to historical science, and authentic items of souvenir interest, and rich opportunities for study foreign languages“with immersion”, and terribly tasty, and most importantly healthy Mediterranean cuisine, on whose dishes more than one generation of centenarians has been brought up.

Another characteristic feature of the Mediterranean, a balm for the heart of an attentive tourist, is the exceptional diversity of nationalities, languages, and cultures.

Everyone will find something to their liking: praying at the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem or burning through what they have acquired by “overwork” at golden parties in Monaco, inhaling the smell of eternity in the Giza Valley or listening to the chirping of cicadas on emerald Corfu, following the footsteps of the Grand Duchesses on the streets of Istanbul or looking at drowning in the red midday haze Fez.

Of the other pleasant bonuses of the direction - a short flight (you can fly to most resorts in no more than 4 hours), combined visa regime(we are talking about Schengen), allowing you to wave to the neighbors in the evening without hassle coastline, in some cases - and the complete absence of visa formalities - as in Tunisia or Turkey. Among other things, the Mediterranean - the most financially accessible of the resort foreign seas - you can find a vacation here, starting from 200 EUR “from the nose”. Finally, the climate here is closest to the "universal" one - the swimming season is from May to October, the absence of exhausting heat in summer and mild, moderately sunny winters. Of the minuses, perhaps the extraordinary popularity of the Mediterranean beaches, which, in terms of the number of bodies per square meter of area, easily outdo the Klondike of the times of the "gold rush". However, for fans of a secluded holiday, the Mediterranean Sea has in store a few secret corners, such as small Greek islands where nothing prevents us from consigning to oblivion everyday life.

Mediterranean Sea- the cradle of humanity! Powerful and great civilizations were born on the Mediterranean coasts, on the ruins of which the modern world developed and flourishes.

Its area can easily absorb Western Europe, its color can surprise with its beauty and richness, the sound of the waves can soothe, and fishing can bring pleasure...

What is this amazing part of the oceans? Where it is, what countries it washes, what depths and shores it has, what peaceful and dangerous animals and plants it hides in the abyss of its waters, what secrets it keeps - all this and a little more you will learn from this article.

1. Where is the Mediterranean Sea

The Mediterranean Sea is located between Asia, Africa and Europe, surrounded by continents, and only with the help of the Strait of Gibraltar, is connected to northern part Atlantic, the Bosporus - with the Black Sea, and with the help of the Suez Canal - borders on the Red Sea.

2. Which countries washes

The Mediterranean Sea is named so due to its location - among the continents (lands). The waters of this sea are washed from west to east by the coasts of more than 22 countries, including: Spain, France, Monaco, Italy, Malta, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Montenegro, Albania, Greece, Turkey, Cyprus, Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco.

The coastal territory of the sea is represented by many islands, different in area and population, the largest of which are:

• O. Corsica;
• O. Balearic;
• O. Sardinia;
• O. Sicily;
• O. Cyprus;
• O. Crete.

The coastline of the Mediterranean has many independent water areas-seas: Ligurian, Adriatic, Tyrrhenian, Black, Ionian, Azov, Balearic, Aegean, Cretan, Levantine, Libyan Seas and the Alboran Sea.

3. History and secrets of the Mediterranean

The modern Mediterranean Sea is a remnant of the ancient Tesis basin, which once occupied the territory of Europe, North Africa, South and West Asia. For many millions of years, the strait connecting to the ocean has repeatedly closed and opened. Subsequently, the sea dried up and could no longer fill up to its former size. The modern relief was formed due to a change in the Earth's climate.

The Mediterranean territory was one of the first to be inhabited by man, and it was here that writing was first born and many great states were formed, world religions were born.

In 1833, an Englishman, a geologist by profession C. Lyell, began to study this ancient sea.

Informative film in English about the Mediterranean Sea

4. Natural characteristics of the Mediterranean Sea

The Mediterranean Sea has an area equal to 2965.5 thousand square meters. km. Average depth sea ​​- 1500 m. The largest is 5,092 m and is located in the depression ionian sea(western part of the Peloponnese). Total length sea ​​- 3 800 m.

The degree of salinity of some seas:

• Black Sea - 18%;
• Adriatic Sea - 36%;
• Aegean Sea - 37%;
• Ligurian Sea - 38%;
• Mediterranean Sea - 39%.

4.1 Climate

The word "climate" from the ancient Greek language is translated as "slope" and refers to the slope of the sun's rays in relation to the earth's surface. Climate is a long-term, well-established weather regime, as opposed to weather conditions, which are changeable.

Climatic conditions are determined by the location of the sea - the subtropical zone defines such a climate as an independent type of "Mediterranean".

For countries washed by the waters of this sea, a decrease in atmospheric pressure is characteristic in winter, which leads to precipitation and storms. During such a period, a cyclone hangs over the sea, accompanied by cloudiness, winds intensify in different directions. The height of the waves can exceed 8 m. In summer, there is an anticyclone per turn, the pressure rises and clear, sunny, not rainy weather prevails during this period.

The temperature regime in the southern part of the sea in January ranges from 14 to 16 degrees, in the northern part - from 7 to 10 degrees. Summer (August) average temperature air 22 - 24 degrees in the northern part and up to 30 degrees in southern regions.

Humidity in summer is 50 - 65%, and in winter from 65 to 80%. Cloudiness in summer from 0 to 3 points, in winter - 6 points.

Hot cities: Larnaca, Limassol, Tel Aviv and Antalya. In these regions, the water temperature in the summer months reaches 27 degrees. Next come the cities with a water temperature of no more than 25 degrees: Valencia, Malta and Heraklion. Even less hot (up to 22 degrees of water) are the coasts of Barcelona, ​​Athens and Malaga.

4.2 Bottom topography

The bottom relief of the Mediterranean Sea is represented by rapids, basins, ridges, depressions, bays and volcanic cones. The sea basin is divided into Western and Eastern parts. So, the bottom of the western basin is more gentle, and the bottom of the eastern one is with depressions and ridges stretching from Cyprus to the Apennine Peninsula.

Here, under the water column, cones of active and extinct volcanoes and tectonic depressions lurk. So, the deepest place in the sea is the Hellenic depression, with a depth of 5121 m. The bottom of the sea is rich in deposits of rock salt, potassium and sulfur. Natural gas and oil are produced here.

The largest bays of the Mediterranean Sea:

• Valencian;
• Lyon;
• Genoese;
• Taranto;
• Sidra or Greater Sirte;
• Gabes or Little Sirte.

It is interesting that at the bottom of the sea there are many remains of ships, the exact number of which, to this day, has not been established.

4.3 Water

The amount of evaporation of the water of the Mediterranean Sea exceeds the amount of atmospheric precipitation, since the sea is surrounded by countries with arid climates. The water deficit is replenished by the North Atlantic waters coming through the Strait of Gibraltar. In the process of evaporation, the salinity and density of water increases, which settles at a depth, which makes this water area warmer. Depending on seasonality, the density of water changes. Interestingly, the Mediterranean Sea is one of the warmest and most salty seas.

Water circulation is due to wind currents. The current speed in open sea areas reaches up to 1 km/h, in the straits - from 2 to 4 km/h. The transparency of the water is from 50 to 60 m. The water has a rich blue color.

4.4 Ebb and flow

Are there tides in the sea (periodic fluctuations in the water level up and down, as a result of changes in the position of the sun and moon relative to the Earth)? Yes, they are not large on average from 1 to 2 cm in both directions. This is due to the fact that the sea is cut off by the narrow Strait of Gibraltar from the Atlantic and, accordingly, the gravitational force of the moon does not act on it.

You can read more about high and low tides on the Wikipedia pages.

Also, the tides are affected by depth, salinity, atmospheric pressure, coastal relief. The largest tides are observed in the Gulf called Gabes, which is located in the northern part of Africa and this is due to its huge shape (100 km long and wide).

The peak of the tide is when the sun and moon are located either on the same side of the Earth (new moon) or on opposite sides (full moon) and the forces of attraction of these objects are combined, which affects the appearance of tides.

With a mediterranean wave height forecast, tides on mediterranean coast Israel you can find on the Oceanographic and Limnological Research website https://isramar.ocean.org.il/isramar2009/TideHadera/default.aspx

5. Life in the Mediterranean

The fauna of the Mediterranean Sea is represented by animals and flora, which is associated with the geological history of the sea and habitat conditions.

5.1 Flora

Despite the meager phytoplankton located in the upper layers of the sea, the vegetation here is diverse: more than 800 species of green, brown, red algae and plants. Notable is the largest sea grass in the world, which has bred in colonies (more than 700 km), “oceanic posidonia”. This is one of the oldest plants, whose age is more than 100 thousand years.

5.2 Animal life

The fauna of the Mediterranean Sea is diverse, but the number of species of inhabitants is not large, which is associated with the poor development of plankton in Mediterranean waters.

Plankton- various organisms floating freely in the water (bacteria, algae, invertebrate larvae, small molluscs, etc.). You can find more information about this type of life on the pages of Wikipedia.

The fauna is represented by more than 800 species of various mollusks: squid, cuttlefish, octopus, crabs, shrimps and others.

5.3 Fishes of the Mediterranean

The winter period is the most massive for the accumulation different types fish, as in other months (spring-summer) they spawn and feed, so they keep more dispersed.

Among the inhabitants there are more than 700 species of various fish, more than 290 of which live in the coastal waters of Israel:

The blue shark also lives in the Mediterranean Sea. There are more than 40 species of Mediterranean sharks. There are also rays, moray eels, reaching 0.5 m in length, dolphins, seals, porpoises and killer whales. There are also sea turtles, which are represented by 3 species.

A detailed list of fish living in the Mediterranean Sea can be found on the pages of Wikipedia

There are 4 types of flying fish off the Israeli coast:

• exocoetus obtusirostris;
• exocoetus volitans;
• hirundichthys rondeletii;
• parexocoetus mento.

5.4 Dangerous inhabitants of the Mediterranean

sharks- not only frightening inhabitants of the sea, but also irreplaceable cleaners of the sea expanses from various types of sick, weak inhabitants. Their population is declining. For example, the hammerhead shark was last observed only in 1955.

Stingray- has poisonous spikes located in the tail of the body.

Electric Stingray- able to give any attacker an electric shock.

6. Features of the coast

north coast has a complex relief: the coast is high, rocky and steep with not small bays.

South coast- even. Mountains stretch from the western part, and in the east they disappear and the coast becomes flat and sandy (almost deserted).

The total length of the Mediterranean coast is 46 thousand km. It is interesting that this area of ​​water would be enough to easily swallow Western Europe!

6.1 Sea coast of Israel

The coast of Israel is washed by the western waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The Mediterranean territory extends from the northern border of Israel to the Gaza Strip. Also on the coast is a plain called "Coastal", stretching for 187 km from Lebanon to the Gaza Strip. The plain is divided into cultural and geographical regions and has many sandy beaches.

The coast of the Mediterranean Sea consists not only of plains and beaches, but of rocky shores and reefs.

6.2 Port cities of Israel

• adaptation to the Mediterranean climate - unhurried summer walks along the sunny coast;
• apply sunscreen;
• beware of marine life;
• do not forget about high waves, rocky bottom and very dangerous rip currents.

You can read more about such a phenomenon as a rip current on the Wikipedia pages.

A short video on what to do if you are caught in a rip current in the Mediterranean

The ancient Mediterranean Sea had many names:

• "Akdeniz" or "White Sea" (Turks);
• "Our Sea" or "Inland" (ancient Romans);
• Sunset Sea (Babylonians).
• "Great Sea" (Hebrew הַיָּם הַגָּדוֹל‏‎, Ha-Yam Ha-Gadol).

This sea includes in its expanses many small seas and various islands, which in ancient times were independent states.

The Mediterranean Sea is famous for the habitat of such an animal as the “sponge”, which later received the name “toilet”, since the dried skeletons of this inhabitant were used as a washcloth.

In 2016, Spanish archaeologists discovered a ship from the time of the Roman Empire at a depth of 70 m, which sank more than 1.5 thousand years ago.

In the Strait of Messina, you can see a mirage.

And what will happen if this Great Basin is drained? You will find the answer to this question if you watch this entertaining film (published by I. Garkalikov)

9. Useful links

- The book of general delusions contains many interesting facts about the Mediterranean Sea.

— interesting article characterizing the Mediterranean Sea.

- an informative article about the currents and tides of the Mediterranean Sea, temperature, flora and fauna.

In the Mediterranean Sea, the seas are distinguished: Alboran, Balearic, Ligurian, Tyrrhenian, Adriatic, Ionian, Cretan, Aegean. The Mediterranean basin includes the Sea of ​​Marmara, the Black Sea, the Sea of ​​Azov.

The modern Mediterranean Sea is a relic of the ancient Tethys Ocean, which was much wider and stretched far to the east. Relics of the Tethys Ocean are also the Aral, Caspian, Black and Marmara Seas, confined to its deepest depressions. Probably, Tethys was once completely surrounded by land, and between North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula, in the region of the Strait of Gibraltar, there was an isthmus. The same land bridge connected southeastern Europe with Asia Minor. It is possible that the Bosphorus, Dardanelles and Gibraltar straits were formed on the site of flooded river valleys, and many island chains, especially in the Aegean Sea, were connected to the mainland.

The Mediterranean Sea juts out into the land between Europe, Africa and Asia.

The seas of the Mediterranean basin wash the shores of 21 states:

Europe (from west to east): Spain, France, Monaco, Italy, Malta, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Montenegro, Albania, Greece, Turkey, Cyprus; Asia (from north to south): Turkey, Syria, Cyprus, Lebanon and Israel; Africa (east to west): Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco. In the northeast, through the Dardanelles, it connects with the Sea of ​​Marmara and further through the Bosphorus - with the Black Sea, in the southeast - with the Suez Canal - with the Red Sea.

The area is 2500 thousand km².

The volume of water is 3839 thousand km³.

The average depth is 1541 m, the maximum depth is 5121 m.

The shores of the Mediterranean Sea near the mountainous coasts are predominantly abrasion, leveled, near the low ones - lagoon-estuary and deltaic; For east coast Adriatic Sea Dalmatian-type shores are characteristic. The most significant bays: Valencia, Lyon, Genoa, Taranto, Sidra (B. Sirte), Gabes (M. Sirte).

The largest islands: Balearic, Corsica, Sardinia, Sicily, Crete and Cyprus.

The large rivers Ebro, Rhone, Tiber, Po, Nile, etc. flow into the Mediterranean Sea; their total annual flow is approx. 430 km³.

The bottom of the Mediterranean Sea breaks up into several basins with relatively steep continental slopes, with a depth of 2000-4000 m; along the coasts, the basins are bordered by a narrow strip of shelf, expanding only between the coast of Tunisia and Sicily, as well as within the Adriatic Sea.

Geomorphologically, the Mediterranean Sea can be divided into three basins: Western - Algiers-Provencal basin with a maximum depth of over 2800 m, uniting the depressions of the Alboran, Balearic and Ligurian seas, as well as the depression Tyrrhenian Sea- over 3600 m; Central - over 5100 m (Central basin and depressions of the Adriatic and Ionian seas) and Eastern - Levantine, about 4380 m (hollows of the Levant, Aegean and Marmara seas).

The bottom of some basins is covered with Neogene-Anthropogenic strata (up to 5-7 km thick in the Balearic and Ligurian Seas) of sedimentary and volcanic rocks. Among the Messinian (Upper Miocene) deposits of the Algiers-Provencal Basin, a significant role belongs to the saline evaporite stratum (thickness of over 1.5-2 km), which forms structures characteristic of salt tectonics. Along the sides and in the center of the Tyrrhenian Basin, several large faults are stretched with extinct and active volcanoes; some of them form large seamounts (Lipari Islands, Vavilov volcano, etc.). Volcanoes along the outskirts of the basin (in the Tuscan archipelago, on the Pontine Islands, Vesuvius, and the Aeolian Islands) erupt acidic and alkaline lavas, volcanoes in the center, parts of the Mediterranean Sea - deeper, basic lavas (basalts).

Part of the Central and Eastern (Levanta) basins are filled with sedimentary strata, including thick products of river runoff, especially the Nile. At the bottom of these basins, according to geophysical studies, the Hellenic deep-water trough and the Central Mediterranean swell were identified - a large arch up to 500-800 m high. Along the foot of the continental slope of Cyrenaica, the Libyan trough is traced, very clearly expressed in the relief and poorly filled with sediments. The basins of the Mediterranean Sea are very different in time of initiation. A significant part of the Eastern (Levantinsky) basin was laid down in the Mesozoic, the Algerian-Provencal basin - from the end of the Oligocene - the beginning of the Miocene, some basins of the Mediterranean Sea - at the beginning - the middle of the Miocene, Pliocene. At the end of the Miocene (Messianic Age), shallow basins already existed in most of the Mediterranean Sea. The depth of the Algiers-Provencal basin during the salt deposition in the Messinian was about 1-1.5 km. Salts accumulated as a result of strong evaporation and concentration of brine due to the influx of sea water into a closed reservoir through a strait that existed south of Gibraltar.

The modern depths of the Tyrrhenian depression were formed as a result of bottom subsidence during the Pliocene and Anthropogenic period (over the last 5 million years); as a result of the same relatively rapid subsidence, some other basins also arose. The formation of the basins of the Mediterranean Sea is associated either with stretching (pulling apart) of the continental crust, or with the processes of compaction of the earth's crust and its subsidence. In the department In areas of the basins, the processes of geosynclinal development continue. The bottom of the Mediterranean Sea in many parts is promising for the search for oil and gas deposits, especially in the area where salt domes are distributed. In shelf zones, oil and gas deposits are associated with Mesozoic and Paleogene deposits.

The hydrological regime of the Mediterranean Sea is formed under the influence of high evaporation and general climatic conditions. conditions. Flow Dominance fresh water over the arrival leads to a decrease in the level, which is the reason for the constant influx of surface less saline waters from the Atlantic. OK. and Black Cape. In the deep layers of the straits there is an outflow of highly saline water caused by the difference in water density at the level of the thresholds of the straits. Main water exchange occurs through the Strait of Gibraltar. (the upper current brings 42.32 thousand km³ of Atlantic water per year, and the lower reaches 40.80 thousand km³ of Mediterranean water); 350 and 180 km³ of water per year flows in and out through the Dardanelles, respectively.

The circulation of waters in S. of m has hl. arr. wind nature; it is represented by the main, almost zonal Canary Current, which carries waters predominantly. Atlantic origin along Africa, from the Gibraltar Strait. to the shores of Lebanon, n system tsiklonich. gyres in isolated seas and basins to the left of this current. The water column to the depths. 750-1000 m is covered by a unidirectional water transfer in depth, with the exception of the Levantinsky intermediate countercurrent, which carries the Levantine waters from about. Malta to the Strait of Gibraltar along Africa.

The speeds of steady currents in the open part of the sea are 0.5-1.0 km/h, in some straits - 2-4 km/h. The average surface water temperature in February decreases from north to south from 8-12 to 17 °C in the east. and center. parts and from 11 to 15 °С by 3. In August, the average water temperature varies from 19 to 25 °С. - at the extreme east, it rises to 27-30 °C. Large evaporation leads to a strong increase in salinity. Its values ​​increase from 3. to V. from 36 to - 39.5. The density of water on the surface varies from 1.023-1.027 g/cm³ in summer to 1.027-1.029 g/cm³ in winter. During the period of winter cooling in districts with increased density, intensive convective mixing develops, which leads to the formation of highly saline and warm intermediate waters in the East. basin and deep waters in the north of the western basin, in the Adriatic and Aegean Seas. In terms of near-bottom temperature and salinity, the Mediterranean Sea is one of the warmest and most saline seas in the world. (12.6-13.4 ° C and 38.4-38.7, respectively). Relates water transparency up to 50-60 m, color - intense blue.

The tides are mostly semidiurnal, their magnitude is less than 1 m, but in some parts. points in combination with wind surges, level fluctuations can reach 4 m (Genoa Bay, near the northern coast of Corsica Island, etc.). In narrow straits there are strong tidal currents(Messina Strait). Max. excitement is noted in winter (wave height reaches 6-8 m).

The climate of the Mediterranean Sea is determined by its position in the subtropical zone and is distinguished by great specificity, which distinguishes it as an independent Mediterranean climate type, characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. In winter, a hollow of low atmospheric pressure is established above the sea, which determines unstable weather with frequent storms and heavy precipitation; cold northerly winds lower the air temperature. Local winds develop: mistral in the area of ​​the Gulf of Lion and bora in the east of the Adriatic Sea. In summer, most of the Mediterranean Sea is covered by the crest of the Azores anticyclone, which determines the predominance of clear weather with little cloudiness and low rainfall. During the summer months, there are dry fogs and a dusty haze carried out of Africa by the southerly sirocco wind. In the Eastern Basin, stable northern winds - etesias - develop.

The average air temperature in January varies from 14-16°С near the southern coast to 7-10°С in the north, in August - from 22-24°С in the north to 25-30°С in the southern regions of the sea. Evaporation from the surface of the Mediterranean Sea reaches 1250 mm per year (3130 km3). Relative humidity varies from 50-65% in summer to 65-80% in winter. Cloudiness in summer 0-3 points, in winter about 6 points. The average annual precipitation is 400 mm (about 1000 km3), it varies from 1100-1300 mm in the northwest to 50-100 mm in the southeast, minimum in July-August, maximum in December.

Mirages are characteristic, which are often observed in the Messinian Strait. (the so-called Fata Morgana).

Vegetation and animal world The Mediterranean Sea is distinguished by a relatively weak quantitative development of phyto- and zooplankton, which entails the paucity of larger animals that feed on them, including fish. The amount of phytoplankton in the surface horizons is only 8-10 mg / m³, at a depth of 1000-2000 m it is 10-20 times less. Algae are very diverse (peridine and diatoms predominate).

The fauna of the Mediterranean Sea is characterized by high species diversity, but the number of representatives of the sep. species are small. There are crayfish, one species of seals (white-bellied seal); sea ​​turtle. 550 species of fish (mackerel, herring, anchovy, mullet, dorado, tuna, bonito, horse mackerel, etc.). About 70 species of endemic fish, including stingrays, anchovy species, gobies, sea. blenny, wrasse and needlefish. Of the edible mollusks, the most important are the oyster, the Mediterranean-Black Sea mussel, and the sea date. Of the invertebrates, octopuses, squids, sepia, crabs, spiny lobsters are common; numerous species of jellyfish, siphonophore; sponges and red coral live in some areas, especially in the Aegean.

The coast of the S. m. has long been densely populated, differs high level economic development(especially the countries located along its northern coast).

Agriculture of the Mediterranean countries: stands out for the production of citrus fruits (about 1/3 of the world harvest), cotton, oilseeds. In the system of international trade and economic relations, trade and economic relations occupy a special position. Located at the junction of three parts of the world (Europe, Asia, and Africa), the Northern Sea is an important transport route along which Europe's maritime links with Asia, North Africa, and also Australia and Oceania run. Important trade routes pass along the S. m., connecting Russia and Ukraine with Western countries, and large cabotage lines between the Black Sea and a number of other ports in Russia and Ukraine.

Transport value of the water area S. m. for Western Europe increases continuously due to the growing dependence of these countries on the import of raw materials. The role of S. m is especially great in oil transportation. S. m. is an important "oil" route between Western Europe and the Middle East. The share of the southern ports (the chief of which are Marseille, Trieste, and Genoa) in supplying Western Europe with oil is constantly growing (about 40% in 1972). Seaports are connected by pipelines both with the countries of Western Europe, including Austria, Germany, France, and Switzerland, and with the oil fields of the Middle East and North Africa. Transportation is also great various kinds raw materials, metal ores and bauxite, page - x. products through the Suez Canal, through which Western Europe links with Asia and Australia. The largest ports are Marseille with outports in France, Genoa, Augusta, Trieste in Italy, Sidra, Marsa Brega in Libya.

Numerous industrial enterprises have been set up along the sea coast and on the islands. On raw materials delivered by sea, the chemical and metallurgical industries developed. In 1960–75, the islands of Sardinia and Sicily in Italy, the mouth of the Rhone in France, and others became major centers of the chemical industry. Oil and gas production began on the shelf of the Northern Sea (the northern part of the Adriatic Sea, the coast of Greece, and others).

Fishing in the North Sea is of secondary importance compared to other basins of the Atlantic Ocean. The industrialization of the coast, the growth of cities, the development of recreational areas lead to intense pollution of the coastal strip. Well known resorts Cote d'Azur(Riviera) in France and Italy, the resorts of the Levantine coast and Balearic Islands in Spain, etc.