Mediterranean Ocean. Mediterranean

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

The modern Mediterranean Sea is a relic of the ancient Tethys Ocean, which was much wider and extended far to the east. The 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 area of the Strait of Gibraltar, there was an isthmus. The same land bridge connected southeastern Europe with Asia Minor. It is possible that the Bosporus, 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 into the land between Europe, Africa and Asia.

The seas of the Mediterranean basin are washed by the shores of 21 states:

Europe (from west to east): Spain, France, Monaco, Italy, Malta, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, Montenegro, Albania, Greece, Turkey, Cyprus; Asia (north to south): Turkey, Syria, Cyprus, Lebanon and Israel; Africa (from east to west): Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco. In the northeast, by the Dardanelles Strait, it connects with the Sea of Marmara and further by the Bosphorus Strait - with the Black Sea, in the southeast by 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 abrasive, leveled; near the low ones, they are lagoon-estuary and deltaic; the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea is characterized by shores of the Dalmatian type. The most significant bays: Valencian, Lyons, Genoese, Taranto, Sidra (B. Sirte), Gabes (M. Sirte).

The largest islands are the Balearic Islands, Corsica, Sardinia, Sicily, Crete and Cyprus.

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

The bottom of the Mediterranean Sea splits into several basins with relatively steep continental slopes, 2000-4000 m deep; along the shores of the basin, they are bordered by a narrow strip of shelf, extending 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 - Algerian-Provencal basin with a maximum depth of more than 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 - Levantinsky, about 4380 m (depressions of the Levant, Aegean and Marmara seas).

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

Part of the Central and Eastern (Levantinsky) basins are filled with sedimentary strata, including powerful products of river flows, especially the Nile. At the bottom of these basins, according to geophysical studies, the Gellen deep-water trench and the Central Mediterranean swell are distinguished - a large vault up to 500-800 m high.Along the foot of the continental slope of Cyrenaica, the Libyan trench is traced, very clearly expressed in the relief and weakly filled with sediments. The basins of the Mediterranean Sea are very different in time of occurrence. A significant part of the Eastern (Levantine) basin was formed in the Mesozoic, the Algerian-Provencal basin - from the end of the Oligocene - the beginning of the Miocene, some basins of the Mediterranean Sea - in the beginning - the middle of the Miocene, Pliocene. At the end of the Miocene (Messianic Age), shallow depressions already existed in most of the Mediterranean. The depth of the Algerian-Provencal Basin during the deposition of salts in the Messinian Age was about 1-1.5 km. Salts were accumulated as a result of strong evaporation and concentration of brine due to the influx of seawater into an enclosed body of water through the strait that existed south of Gibraltar.

The present-day depths of the Tyrrhenian Basin were formed as a result of the subsidence of the bottom during the Pliocene and the Anthropogenic period (over the last 5 million years); as a result of the same relatively rapid subsidence, some other basins arose. The formation of the basins of the Mediterranean Sea is associated either with the stretching (spreading) of the continental crust, or with the processes of compaction of the earth's crust and its subsidence. In dep. the processes of geosynclinal development continue in the parts of the basins. The bottom of the Mediterranean Sea in many parts is promising for prospecting for oil and gas, especially in the area of salt domes. In the shelf zones, oil and gas deposits are confined to the Mesozoic and Paleogene deposits.

The hydrological regime of the Mediterranean Sea is formed under the influence of high evaporation and general climatic conditions. conditions. The predominance of fresh water consumption over the inflow leads to a decrease in the level, which is the reason for the constant inflow of surface less saline waters from the Atlantic. OK. and Cherny m. In the deep layers of the straits, there is an outflow of highly saline waters caused by the difference in water density at the level of the straits' sills. Main water exchange takes place through the Strait of Gibraltar. (the upper current brings 42.32 thousand km³ per year of Atlantic water, and the lower one carries 40, 80 thousand km³ of Mediterranean water); through the Dardanelles, 350 and 180 km³ of water flows in and out, respectively, per year.

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

The velocities of steady currents in the open 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 ° C by 3. In August average temperature water changes from 19 to 25 ° C. - in 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 - up to 1.027-1.029 g / cm³ in winter. During the winter cooling period, intense convective mixing develops in areas with increased density, a cut leading to the formation of highly saline and warm intermediate waters in Vost. basin and deep waters in the north of the western basin, in the Adriatic and Aegean seas... In terms of bottom temperature and salinity, the Mediterranean Sea is one of the warmest and saltiest seas in the World approx. (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 value is less than 1 m, but in sept. points in combination with wind surges, level fluctuations can reach 4 m (Genoese Bay, off the north coast of Corsica Island, etc.). Strong tidal currents are observed in narrow straits (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 has great specificity, which makes it an independent Mediterranean type of climate, characterized by mild, humid winters and hot dry summers. In winter, a depression of low atmospheric pressure is established over the sea, which determines unstable weather with frequent storms and heavy rainfall; cold north winds lower the air temperature. Local winds develop: the mistral in the Gulf of Lyon and the pine forest in the east of the Adriatic Sea. In summer, most of the Mediterranean Sea is covered by the ridge of the Azores anticyclone, which determines the predominance of clear weather with little cloudiness and little precipitation. The summer months are dry fogs and dusty haze blown out of Africa by the sirocco southerly wind. In the Eastern basin, stable northern winds - etesias - develop.

The average air temperature in January varies from 14-16 ° С at southern shores up 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 air 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.

Characteristic are mirages, which are often observed in the Strait of Messina. (the so-called Fata Morgana).

The flora and fauna of the Mediterranean Sea is characterized by a relatively weak quantitative development of phyto- and zooplankton, which entails attributable. the small number 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 (peridineas and diatoms predominate).

The fauna of the Mediterranean Sea is characterized by a large species diversity, however, the number of representatives of the dep. species is small. There are crayfish, one type of seal (white-bellied seal); sea turtle. There are 550 fish species (mackerel, herring, anchovy, mullet, corifenaceae, tuna, bonito, horse mackerel, etc.). About 70 species of endemic fish, including stingrays, anchovy, gobies, pestilence. dogs, wrasse and needlefish. Of the edible molluscs, the most important are oysters, Mediterranean-Black Sea mussels, and sea dates. Invertebrates include octopuses, squids, sepia, crabs, lobster; numerous types of jellyfish, siphonophores; some areas, especially the Aegean Sea, are home to sponges and red coral.

The coast of S. m. Has long been densely populated, and is distinguished by a high level of 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, S. m. Occupies a special position. Located at the junction of three parts of the world (Europe, Asia, and Africa), the sea is an important transport route along which Europe's maritime links with Asia, North Africa, and also Australia and Oceania pass. Important trade routes connecting Russia and Ukraine with Western countries, and the line of large cabotage between the Black Sea and a number of other ports of Russia and Ukraine.

The transport importance of the seawater area of the sea for Western Europe is continuously growing in connection with the growing dependence of these countries on imports of raw materials. The role of oil and gas is especially great in the transportation of oil. The oil field is an important oil route between Western Europe and the Middle East. The share of southern ports (the main of which are Marseille, Trieste, Genoa) in the supply of oil to Western Europe is constantly growing (about 40% in 1972). The ports of the Northern Sea region are connected by pipelines both with the countries of Western Europe, including Austria, Germany, France, and Switzerland, and with oil fields in the Middle East and North Africa... Transportation of various types of raw materials, metal ores and bauxite, agricultural products is also great. products on the Suez Canal, through which the links of Western Europe with Asia and Australia pass. 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 on the coast of S. m. And on the islands. The chemical and metallurgical industries developed on raw materials delivered by sea. 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 North Sea shelf (the northern part of the Adriatic Sea, the coast of Greece, etc.).

Fishing in the North Sea is of secondary importance in comparison with other basins of the Atlantic around. The industrialization of the coast, the growth of cities, the development of recreational areas lead to intense pollution of the coastal strip. Resorts are widely known French Riviera(Riviera) in France and Italy, the resorts of the Levantine coast and the Balearic Islands in Spain, etc.

The Mediterranean Sea is located between Europe, Asia Minor and Africa. It is surrounded on all sides by land, with the exception of two narrow straits - the Strait of Gibraltar (connects the Mediterranean with the North Atlantic) and the Bosphorus (connects the Mediterranean with the Black Sea) - and the Suez Canal (connects the Mediterranean with the Red Sea).

Mediterranean Sea area 2965.5 thousand km2, Average depth 1500 m; the deepest (5092 m) is the depression of the Ionian Sea, located to the west of the Peloponnese peninsula (part of the Hellenic depression). The shallow threshold of the Sicilian Strait and the narrow Strait of Messina divide the Mediterranean into two parts - east and west (and, accordingly, into two basins). The boundaries of the seas that make up the Mediterranean Sea are set arbitrarily.

In the western part of the Mediterranean Sea there are the Alboran, Balearic, Ligurian and Tyrrhenian seas, in the east - the Adriatic, Ionian, Aegean and Marmara seas, located between the Dardanelles and Bosphorus straits. The Mediterranean Sea is characterized by numerous small islands, especially the Aegean and Ionian Seas.

Most large islands : Sicily, Sardinia, Cyprus, Corsica and Crete. The main rivers flowing into the Mediterranean are the Rhone, Nile and Po. The waters of the rivers that flow into the Black Sea enter the Mediterranean Sea through the Bosphorus and Dardanelles.

Bottom relief

The Mediterranean Sea has many morphological features characteristic of the oceanic basin. The continental shoals are rather narrow (less than 25 miles) and moderately developed. Continental slopes are usually very steep and cut by underwater canyons. The canyons along the French Riviera and the western coast of Corsica are some of the best known.

Fan loops are located at the continental foot of the large deltas of the Rhone and Po rivers. The fan of the Rhone River extends into the sea towards the Balearic Abyssal Plain. This abyssal plain with an area of over 78 thousand km2 occupies most of the western basin.
The steepness of the slopes of this plain suggests that the deposition of sediments carried by the turbidity currents from the Rhone takes place to a large extent through the channels that cut the fan. However, to the Balearic Abyssal Plain, sedimentary material to some extent comes from the canyons of the Cote d'Azur and the canyons of the North African coast (region of Algeria).

In the Tyrrhenian Sea there is a central abyssal plain with several small plateaus, on which the highest seamount rises 2850 m above the sea floor (depth above the mountain is 743 m). There are many other seamounts in this sea; on the mainland slope of Sicily and Calabria, the peaks of some of them rise above the sea surface and form islands. Columns of soil taken from the central abyssal plain show distinct ash layers that correspond to historic volcanic eruptions in the Apennine Peninsula.

Bottom morphology the eastern basin of the Mediterranean Sea differs markedly from the morphology of the bottom of the western basin. In the western basin, in addition to a small abyssal plain in the center of the Ionian Sea, other large areas with horizontally lying and not deformed terrigenous sediments were not found. Vast areas of the bottom represent either a complexly dissected median ridge, or a series of collapsed depressions located in an arc parallel to the Hellenic archipelago.

Deep sea trenches stretch from the Ionian Islands and pass south of the islands of Crete and Rhodes in the Gulf of Antalya (Hellenic depression). The deepest Mediterranean Sea - 5092 m - has one of these depressions with a flat bottom (filled with sediments). Sediments began to fill another depression to the south of the island of Rhodes (depth 4450 m).

The Nile fan fan has well-developed channels that form a large branched system. The channels lead to a very narrow abyssal plain at the base of the fan, in contrast to the western Mediterranean basin, where the Rhone river fan feeds the great Balearic abyssal plain. At present, the narrow abyssal plain at the base of the Nile fan fan is actively deformed; some of its parts are the middle ridge, or a series of collapsed depressions located in an arc parallel to the Hellenic archipelago. Apparently, in the recent past, the process of sedimentation was slower than tectonic deformation. large parts Eastern Mediterranean.

Hydrological regime... The Mediterranean Sea is surrounded by countries with dry climates, the result of which the amount of evaporation significantly exceeds the amount of precipitation and river runoff. The resulting water shortage is replenished through the Strait of Gibraltar by the influx of North Atlantic surface waters. An increase in the salinity of water due to evaporation causes an increase in its density. Denser water sinks deeper; thus, the western and eastern basins are filled with a homogeneous and relatively warm water mass.

Temperature and salinity deep and intermediate waters vary in very small limits: from 12.7 to 14.5 ° C and from 38.4 to 39 prom.

Water circulation

North Atlantic surface waters entering the Mediterranean Sea through the Strait of Gibraltar move along the coast of North Africa and gradually spread over the surface of the Mediterranean Sea; part of the waters extends into the Lugirian Sea; part of the Tyrrhenian Sea. There, cooling due to evaporation and the influence of dry polar air masses coming from Europe, the waters submerge, forming a certain type of water mass in the western Mediterranean. North Atlantic waters through the Sicilian Strait also flow into the eastern sector of the Mediterranean Sea. where some of them deviate to the north into the Adriatic Sea. As a result of evaporation, they also cool down here and sink to a depth. North Atlantic waters sporadically overflow over the threshold of the Strait of Otranto, forming a deep water mass in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. The distribution of dissolved oxygen in the deep waters of the Ionian Sea indicates their circulation counterclockwise.

The remaining North Atlantic waters on the surface, now very much altered by evaporation, continue to move eastward to the island of Cyprus, where they sink in the winter months.

North Atlantic surface waters carrying large amounts of dissolved salts must eventually return to the North Atlantic, since the salinity of the Mediterranean Sea does not increase over time.

Outflow of waters from the Mediterranean Sea occurs through the threshold of the Strait of Gibraltar at a depth below the incoming stream (300 m). The Mediterranean water leaving the Mediterranean Sea through the Strait of Gibraltar, despite the higher temperature, is significantly saltier and denser than the Atlantic, which is at the same level. As a result, Mediterranean water, entering the Atlantic Ocean, flows down the continental slope, until finally, at a depth of 1000 m, it does not meet Atlantic deep water of the same density. Then the Mediterranean water rises and spreads to the north, south and west, forming a layer that is found southward in the Atlantic for several thousand miles.

Biogenic elements... The waters of the Mediterranean Sea are poor in nutrients. Phosphates in them are much less than in waters. North Atlantic... This is explained by the following. that the waters from the North Atlantic enter the Mediterranean Sea through a shallow rapids, therefore only the North Atlantic surface waters, which are themselves severely depleted, pass through the Mediterranean Sea. The accumulation of nutrients in deep waters is also hindered by the continuous outflow of water returning back through the Strait of Gibraltar. It takes about 75 children to fully ventilate the entire Mediterranean basin by removing water.

Tides in the Mediterranean predominantly semi-daily. The east to west basins have separate systems of standing waves. In the Adriatic Sea, there is a progressive (forward) tide of about 1 m. Moving around the aifidromic point located near the center of the Mediterranean Sea. At other points in the Mediterranean Sea, the tide is about 30 cm.

Bottom sediments off the coast include the following components: 1) carbonates, consisting mainly of coccolithophorids, as well as foraminifera and pteropods; 2) detritus carried by wind and currents; 3) volcanogenic substances; and 4) the end products of weathering of land rocks, mainly clay minerals. The average carbon content in the soil columns of the eastern basin of the Mediterranean is about 40% and in the columns of the western basin about 30%. Detritus content varies from zero to maximum; in general, it is higher in the soil columns of the western Mediterranean basin. Sometimes, sandy horizons can be recognized in soil columns and compared from core to core. Volcanic ash forms more or less distinct layers and is also found in non-volcanic material. The amount of volcanic products is small, except for areas close to volcanoes (Vesuvius and Etna).

The sedimentation rate at Levanto and in the Ionian Sea is small, the same as in the central part of the North Atlantic; in the western Mediterranean, it is several times larger.

The structure of the earth's crust... Analysis of seismic measurements by the method of refracted waves, carried out in the western part of the Mediterranean Sea, showed that the earth's crust here has an “oceanic nature”. Throughout the Balearic Abyssal Plain, the surface depth of Mohorovichich is less than 12 km from sea level. This value increases towards the mainland and reaches more than 50 km under the Maritime Alps, which abruptly drop off at the Cote d'Azur.

In the Mediterranean Sea, a layer of sediments (thickness 1-1.5 km) with a low velocity of longitudinal waves (1.7-2.5 km / s) is underlain by a thick stratum of rocks with average speed longitudinal waves (3.0-6.0 km / s). Precipitation with low wave velocity is much more powerful in the western basin of the Mediterranean Sea than in the eastern one. If a layer with an intermediate wave velocity marks the bottom of the sediment stratum, then their thickness is extremely small, given the large area over which the Rhone River flows. (In the deep-water part of the Gulf of Mexico, the sediment thickness is more than 6 km.)

However, if the reflective layer is represented by consolidated sediments or volcanic rocks within the sedimentary strata, then it indicates a significant change in the geological history of this basin. The magnetic field in the Mediterranean is remarkably uniform, especially in the tectonically active eastern basin. However, in the Tyrrhenian Sea, there are strong anomalies over the seamounts.

A wide strip of negative Faya gravity anomalies is confined to the central part of the Hellenic depression. They are associated with the large subsidence of blocks of the earth's crust within this depression. Seismic studies in the northern part of the western basin of the Mediterranean Sea revealed its subsidence relative to the European continent by 3 km. The main reason for such large vertical movements is not well understood. Faye's weak gravity anomalies in the western Mediterranean indicate that the basin is in isostatic equilibrium. It is extremely difficult to imagine how the modern “oceanic” crust could have maintained the previous uplift without any redistribution of density within the deep part of the crust or the upper mantle.

Geotectonic development... The Mediterranean Sea is a relict sea, the remnant of a huge water basin that used to stretch from Portugal to the Pacific Ocean (through the Alps, Southeast Europe, Turkey, Iran, Himalayas, Southeast Asia). It is believed to have been associated with the Maori Geosyncline in New Zealand. Suess called this ancient sea basin the Tethys Sea.

Its history is well known since the Triassic, but even in the Paleozoic there are traces of such a connection, and many authors speak of the proto- or paleo-Tethys. Tethys separated the northern continents (Eurasia and, possibly, the continuation of North America, that is, Laurasia) from the southern continents, originally united in Gondwana.

Between the two aforementioned giant continental blocks of the primary "Protogen" there has apparently been a constant interaction, at least for the last half a billion years. Different authors understand these relationships in different ways. Proponents of continental drift, for example Argand, Wegener, believe that there was a constant approach of the two original earth masses, which led to deep-sea depressions and, as a result, to the formation of Alpine folding, which arose at the beginning of the Late Cretaceous period and resumed in several phases of the Tertiary period.

According to others (for example, Staub, Glanzho), the so-called "ebb and flow" took place, that is, the processes of compression and extension.

Its total area is 2,500,000 km ², and the deepest point is located off the coast of Greece, and is 5121 m. However, the average sea depth is about 1,500 m. The Mediterranean Sea connects with Atlantic Ocean through the narrow Strait of Gibraltar between Spain and Morocco, which is only 22 km wide.

The Mediterranean has played a historically important role in international trade, which has become a strong factor in the development of the region around it.

History of the Mediterranean

The region around the Mediterranean has a long history that dates back to ancient times. For example, tools from the Stone Age have been discovered by archaeologists along its shores, and it is believed that the Egyptians began to sail on it in 3000 BC. NS. The early people of the region used the Mediterranean as a trade route, a way to move or colonize other regions. As a result, the sea was controlled by several ancient civilizations. These include the Minoan, Phoenician, Greek and later Roman civilizations.

However, in the V century. BC NS. The Roman Empire fell, and the Byzantines, Arabs and Turkish-Ottomans began to control the Mediterranean Sea and the region around it. By the 12th century, trade in the region was growing as Europeans began their exploration expeditions. Although trade in the region declined in the late 1400s, when European traders opened new waterways to India and Far East... However, in 1869, after the opening of the Suez Canal, trade in the region began to grow again.

In addition, the opening of the Suez Canal, which connects the Mediterranean and the Red Seas, has also become an important strategic location for many European countries. As a consequence, the United Kingdom and France began to build colonies and naval bases along the coast.

Today the Mediterranean Sea is one of the busiest seas in the world. Trade and shipping are very well developed, as well as significant fishing in the waters of the sea. In addition, tourism makes up a large part of the region's economy, thanks to its mild climate, beautiful beaches, developed cities and ancient historical sites.

Geography of the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean Sea is a very large sea bounded by Europe, Africa and Asia, and stretches from the Gibraltar Strait in the west to the Dardanelles and the Suez Canal in the east. Since the Mediterranean Sea is connected to the ocean only by the narrow Strait of Gibraltar, it is characterized by very weak ebb and flow, and its waters are warmer and saltier than in the Atlantic Ocean. This is due to the fact that evaporation exceeds the amount of precipitation and runoff, and the circulation of sea water is less active than if the sea was more connected with the ocean. However, sufficient water flows into the sea from the Atlantic Ocean so that sea levels are not subject to strong fluctuations.

Geographically, the Mediterranean Sea is divided into two distinct basins - the Western and Eastern basins. The western basin extends from Cape Trafalgar in Spain and Cape Spartel in Africa in the west to Cape Et Tib in northeastern Tunisia. The Eastern Basin stretches from the eastern border of the Western Basin to the shores of Syria and Palestine.

In total, the Mediterranean Sea is bordered by 22 states, as well as several different territories. Some of the countries with borders along the Mediterranean coast include: Spain, France, Monaco, Malta, Turkey, Lebanon, Israel, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, and Morocco. It also borders several smaller seas and is home to over 3000 islands. The largest of these islands include Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, Cyprus and Crete.

The land relief around the Mediterranean Sea is varied and with a heavily indented coastline in the northern regions. High mountains and steep, rocky cliffs are not uncommon in the region. In other areas, although the coastline is gently sloping, deserts predominate. The water temperature of the Mediterranean Sea also varies, but in general, it fluctuates between 10 ° and 27 ° C.

Environmental threats to the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean Sea is home to countless different species and mainly from the Atlantic Ocean. However, since the Mediterranean is warmer and saltier than the ocean, these species have had to adapt. Porpoises, bottlenose dolphins and Loggerhead sea turtles are common in the sea.

There are a number of threats to the Mediterranean. Invasive species are one of the most common threats, as ships from other regions often bring in non-native species, and the inhabitants of the Red Sea enter the Mediterranean via the Suez Canal. Pollution is also a big problem, as coastal cities dump chemicals and waste into the waters of the sea. Overfishing, like tourism, threaten biodiversity and integrity as both industries put pressure on the natural environment of the Mediterranean.

Mediterranean countries

Due to the large size of the Mediterranean Sea and its intercontinental location, it borders 22 states in Europe, Africa and Asia. Below is a list of all Mediterranean countries sorted by continent and with information on area, population and capitals.

Mediterranean African countries

1) Algeria:

Area: 2,381,741 km²
Population: 40.4 million people (as of 2016)
Capital: Algeria

2) Egypt:

Area: 1010408 km²
Population: 96,492,600 (as of 2017)
Capital: Cairo

Note: most of the territory of Egypt is located in Africa, with the exception of the Sinai Peninsula, located in Asia.

3) Libya:

Area: 1,759,541 km²
Population: 6,293,253 people (as of 2017)
Capital: Tripoli

4) Morocco:

Area: 710850 km²
Population: 33,848,242 people (as of 2015)
Capital: Rabat

5) Tunisia:

Area: 163610 km²
Population: 11,304,482 people (as of 2016)
Capital: Tunisia

Mediterranean countries of Asia

6) Israel:

Area: 20770-22072 km²
Population: 8,816,440 (as of 2018)
Capital: Jerusalem

7) Lebanon:

Area: 10452 km²
Population: 6006,668 people (as of 2017)
Capital: Beirut

8) Syria:

Area: 185,180 km²
Population: 17064854 (as of 2014)
Capital: Damascus

Mediterranean countries of Europe

10) Albania:

Area: 28748 km²
Population: 2,876,591 (as of 2017)
Capital: Tirana

11) Bosnia and Herzegovina:

Area: 51129 km²
Population: 3,531,159 (as of 2016)
Capital: Sarajevo

12) Croatia:

Area: 56,594 km²
Population: 4,154,200 (as of 2017)
Capital: Zagreb

13) Cyprus:

Area: 9251 km²
Population: 1,170,125 (as of 2017)
Capital: Nicosia

14) France:

Area: 640679 km²
Population: 67,201,000 (as of 2017)
Capital: Paris

15) Greece:

Area: 131,957 km²
Population: 11,183,716 (as of 2017)
Capital: Athens

16) Italy:

Area: 301,338 km²
Population: 60,589,445 (as of 2017)
Capital: Rome

17) Malta:

Area: 316 km²
Population: 445,426 (as of 2014)
Capital: Valletta

18) Monaco:

Area: 2.02 km²
Population: 37,863 (as of 2016)
Capital: Monaco

19) Montenegro:

Area: 13,810 km²
Population: 622387 (as of 2016)
Capital: Podgorica

20) Slovenia:

Area: 20273 km²
Population: 2,065,895 (as of 2017)
Capital: Ljubljana

21) Spain:

Area: 505,990 km²
Population: 46,354,321 (as of 2016)
Capital: Madrid

22) Turkey:

Area: 783,562 km²
Population: 79,463,663 (as of 2016)
Capital: Ankara

Tourism lovers are much more likely to ask than schoolchildren. This sea plays an important role in the life of not only the modern inhabitants of its coast, it influenced the emergence of many civilizations.

"Sea in the middle of the Earth"

The use of the Mediterranean Sea began long before new continents were discovered. It seemed to people that this significant body of water was located in the very center of the planet. Thus, the sea got its name.

The "sea in the middle of the earth" has become the most important trade route. It helped ferry from Eurasia to Africa. Not only trade relations were established between peoples. Ethnic groups living along the coast have sought to establish diplomatic contacts with other countries. Alliances were made with someone, and hostilities were fought with someone. But even wars, to some extent, had a positive effect on the development of mankind. The captured peoples adopted the experience and culture of the invaders. As a result of cultural exchange, new civilizations were born.

Today, the Mediterranean Sea continues to facilitate contacts between different cultures. The main source of income for the ancient inhabitants of the coast was trade with foreigners. Nowadays, tourism has also been added to trade. Having learned which countries are washed by the Mediterranean Sea, tourists plan their vacation.

Where to travel?

On sea coast there are a huge number of countries. It will take more than one vacation to get to know everyone:

Malta. Many people mistakenly believe that the state consists of only one island. In fact, in addition to the main part of Malta, the state includes the island of Gozo (also called Gozo) and several sparsely inhabited islands. The small state has a population of only about 500,000 thousand people. Due to its climate in 2011, Malta was recognized as one of the best countries for living in peace.
Italy. Here, the tourist awaits rest for the soul and body. In Italy, you can lie on the beach and visit a huge number of museums. The rich culture of this country will not leave anyone indifferent. Italy is famous for its gastronomic delights. The national cuisine is not only tasty, but also healthy. Beach holidays in this country are suitable for lovers of nudism. In 2006, being on the beach without clothes was legalized. Sunbathing in this way is not possible in every country on the Mediterranean Sea. In some states, travelers and the local population face a heavy fine or arrest for such behavior. More than half a million people visit Italian nudist beaches every year.
Spain. This country seems to be a place for endless holidays. Some celebrations terrify foreign tourists. Tomatina is a holiday during which people throw tomatoes at each other. Not every traveler will appreciate this way to spend their free time. You can give preference to less exotic entertainment. Some tourists, returning from Spain, decide to take a flamenco or guitar course.
France. The southeast of this country is washed by the Mediterranean Sea. French culture is very diverse. The specificity of the region will be determined by its location. Being in the south of the country, travelers often feel that they are in some Spanish or Italian town. And this feeling is not far from the truth. Most of the Mediterranean cities are really similar to each other. Some localities in the south of France were founded by representatives of other ethnic groups. Marseille, for example, was founded by the Greeks. It was originally called Massilia.
Turkey. This country is most popular with Russian tourists. Europeans are much less common here. For thousands of Russians, Antalya, Mersin, Istanbul and some other Turkish cities are a permanent place summer vacation during several years. Turkey attracts with its cozy beaches, architectural landmarks and local cuisine... Prices in this country are much lower than in Europe. The Turkish lira is cheaper than the dollar or the euro. It is noteworthy that while in Turkey, you can relax not only in the Mediterranean, but also in the Black Sea.

Despite the wide popularity of travel to the countries of Asia and America, tours along the Mediterranean coast have not lost their attractiveness for many years. The warm sea, mild climate and an abundance of historically significant places invariably attract tourists from near and far abroad.

The Mediterranean Sea is a vast body of water that unites Asia, Europe and Africa. Due to its geographical position, the sea is called intercontinental or marginal. Through the Strait of Gibraltar, more than 13 km long, the sea flows into the Atlantic Ocean.

The area of the Mediterranean basin is about 3 million km 2. The length of the reservoir from west to east is about 3800 km, and from north to south - about 1700 km. The total volume of sea water resources is more than 3800 km 3.

The Mediterranean has a long history. It is a "descendant" of the ancient Tethys reservoir, which was located between the two oldest continents. After the displacement of tectonic plates and continental drift, the basin was unable to maintain its former shape.

The inhabitants of Ancient Egypt are considered the first travelers who mastered the movement by sea. Already in 3000 BC. the Mediterranean basin was used for the transport of trade goods, people and livestock. Except for the Egyptians, by sea used by the Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans.

After the 1400s. trade moved to new lands - India and the East. However, after the opening of the Suez Canal in the 19th century, the Mediterranean basin again became one of the leaders in the development of shipping, tourism and trade, and it continues to be considered so to this day.

Countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea

The waves of the Mediterranean Sea wash the coasts of the countries of Europe, northern Africa and a small area of Southwest Asia. Among them:

Seas

The Mediterranean Sea is a vast watershed, which includes the basins of other reservoirs washing the coastlines of the African and Eurasian continents.

The seas of the Mediterranean region are:

The rivers

Many rivers flow into the body of the Mediterranean Sea.

The most voluminous of them:

Islands

As in any other, the Mediterranean Sea has a huge number of islands, varying in size and location. Some of them are separate states. Archipelagos, which include several islands, are counted among the countries that are washed by the waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Most populous islands:

The depth of the Mediterranean

Although the Mediterranean Sea is not included in the list of the deepest bodies of water in the world, in some parts of the basin there are sections with depressions over 4000 m long.The Hellenic depression is considered the deepest - 5121 m.
It is used for the extraction of minerals - natural gas and oil. The average depth of the watershed is about 1500 m.

Geological structure and bottom topography

The bottom relief of the Mediterranean Sea was formed under the influence of the Earth's climate. The depths of the basin are divided into 2 parts - east and west. The first is an uneven surface dotted with many depressions and ridges. The bottom relief of the western sea region is flat and relatively flat.

At the bottom of the reservoir there are tectonic depressions, elevations of active and extinct volcanoes... Also, the depths of the sea conceal innumerable remains of sunken ships.

Among the most large bays The Mediterranean is distinguished by:

Genoese.
Gabes.
Cider.
Lyons.
Taranto.
Walensky.

Hydrological regime

The water regime of the Mediterranean Sea is characterized by strong evaporation, for which the amount of atmospheric precipitation entering the basin is insufficient to replenish it.

The reason for this is geographic location body of water, which is influenced by the surrounding countries with climatic conditions, suggesting the predominance of high air temperatures. Resource shortages are eliminated by waters coming from the Atlantic Ocean.

The salinity of the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean Sea is considered to be quite warm. The temperature of the sea water is regulated by the parameters of salinity and density that increase during evaporation. The movement of water flows is provoked by winds. In the straits, the waters flow faster - up to 2-4 km / h, while the speed of the free areas is about 1 km / h.

The transparency of the Mediterranean Sea water is 55-60 m. The color of the reservoir in deep-water areas is dark blue, and the coastal waters have a blue-blue tint.

Vegetable world

Mediterranean flora is rich and varied. It is based on colonies of brown, green and red algae, the total number of species of which is close to 800. Phytoplankton, whose population is underdeveloped, live in the layers of the sea accessible to sunny colors.

Oceanic Posidonia occupies about 700 km of the seabed. This plant is considered one of the largest in length among the known varieties of algae. Posidonia is also unique in its ancient history, since its age exceeds 100 thousand years.

Animal world

The fauna of the Mediterranean basin is considered sparse in number, in comparison with the number of representatives of the fauna of other seas. This is due to the small variety of plankton, which is food for marine inhabitants.

except known species fish and mammals, in the waters of the Mediterranean there are about 900 species of molluscs and invertebrates.

The reservoir is inhabited by:

Fishes of the mediterranean sea

Spring and summer are considered spawning periods for fish. At this time, they keep scattered, not gathering in large shoals. However, already in winter, large concentrations of various species of underwater inhabitants can be found.

The Mediterranean waters are home to about 750 species of fish. The reservoir is home to dolphins, tuna and several species of flying fish. Approximately 290 species of waterfowl inhabit the Israeli side of the sea.

Among them:

mullet;
laurel;
dorada;
garfish;
snake;
silago;
palamid;
marmir;
spitz;
grouper;
aras;
saragus;
bluefish.

Dangerous inhabitants of the Mediterranean

The waters of the Mediterranean basin are inhabited by many species of fish, animals and plants that can harm humans and pose a threat to their health:

Mediterranean Tourism

Mediterranean Sea opens holiday season from the end of April, and it lasts until the beginning of October. The most favorable period is considered to be from May to July. In August, jellyfish season begins, so swimming in the sea becomes unsafe. The water of the Mediterranean Sea during the year is kept within the range of + 12 ° - + 29 ° C in the coldest and hottest month, respectively.

The Mediterranean Sea offers both relaxing holidays on coastal beaches and rich active and excursion programs.

The following types of recreation are available to travelers:

diving;
surfing;
yachting;
snorkeling;
boat trips;
visiting aquariums, water parks, entertainment centers.

Major European resorts

Almost all European resort capitals on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea combine the possibility of a beach holiday and a wide program of entertainment. Each tourist destination has its own characteristics and local charm.

However, the largest holiday regions are:

In Greece, tourists will discover a world that combines regularity and the spirit of antiquity. Priceless historical monuments from the times of Ancient Greece are located everywhere. Athens, Thessaloniki and Thebes will show the beauty and grandeur of the buildings of this era to the fullest.

The tourist infrastructure in the country is very developed, so each resort provides services at the highest level. In addition to relaxing on the beach and sightseeing tours, travelers are offered diving, visits to wineries and cheese dairies.

In Greece, the following cities are worth visiting:

The state of Cyprus is an island that is replete with a variety of recreation areas. Here travelers will find sandy beaches with crystal clear coastlines where they can forget the hustle and bustle of big cities. The largest resorts in Cyprus are Limassol, Paphos and Ay-Napa.

Italy is a country with a wide range of resort holidays. The north of the state is known for its attractions and a huge excursion program. In the south, tourists will receive a warm welcome from local residents, the opportunity to relax on the beach and enjoy the world famous national cuisine. The Italian islands of Sicily, Capri and Sardinia will also give you an unforgettable vacation.

In Italy, it is worth visiting cities such as:

Many travelers consider Spain an exotic country, as it differs from most European countries.

Most of the Spanish resorts are located on islands and small archipelagos in the Mediterranean:

Ibiza;
Tenerife;
Majorca;
Minorca.

However, there are plenty of places to stay on the mainland. Barcelona will surprise you with its Catalan flavor and will open the world of Gaudi architecture, and Valencia will show the tourist the homeland of Don Quixote. Travelers will love the Costa Brava, Costa del Sol and the resort of San Sebastian.

France is called the country for elite rest... World-class stars rest in luxury resorts, but budget tourists can also relax here without much financial damage. Hotels are categorized by class, as well as individual resort areas.

Famous cities The Cote d'Azur of the Mediterranean Sea are:

Despite the higher cost of a European holiday, the price pays off thanks to the high quality service, excellent cuisine and a varied leisure program.

While on vacation, it is worth remembering that in many resort countries of the Mediterranean, all establishments close for a siesta at lunchtime. This happens approximately from 13:00 to 17:00.

Attractive Asian coast

The tourist business is most common in countries on the Asian coast of the Mediterranean such as Turkey, Israel and Egypt. Travelers come here practically all year round thanks to the pleasant climate of the region.

Israel is famous for its resorts. In Tel Aviv, tourists can plunge into the contrasting atmosphere of the capital, see the colorful eastern streets and go on excursions to important historical sites. All Tel Aviv beach areas are well equipped, and the sand on the seaside has a golden hue. Tourists consider it a highlight of the Israeli coast.

Rest in Israel will be provided by resort cities:

Haifa;
Sironite;
Herzliya;
Dado;
Bat Yam.

Cairo is the capital of Egypt. Here tourists can get acquainted with the greatest architectural monuments that have survived from pre-Christian times.

The Great Pyramids of Giza and a visit to the Sphinx are included in the mandatory excursion program. It is fascinating to explore the Nile Valley, where vacationers can enjoy the view of magnificent gardens and ancient rocky caves. In Alexandria and Mersa Matruh, in addition to historical sites, travelers are invited beach vacation.

Turkey is considered the most visited resort country in the Mediterranean. Almost every coastal city has a resort status. The service, the level of the hotels and the quality of the rest amaze even the most severe critics. The Turkish coast is predominantly sandy, pebble beaches are less common.

As excursion program tourists are offered:

visiting mosques, museums, palaces;
trips to Troy, Ephesus, Istanbul;
tours to underground cities Cappadocia.

The best Turkish resorts:

Side.
Alanya.
Kemer.
Belek.
Antalya.

Popular African cities

The waters of the southern Mediterranean Sea wash over the North African states. The most popular tourist destinations are Algeria, Tunisia and Morocco. Every year, countries are ennobling resorts and improving service, which competes with the European Mediterranean.

Despite the fact that the beaches of Algeria are somewhat inferior to the coastline of other Mediterranean capitals of Africa, the city does not lose its popularity among tourists.

Tourist enthusiasts will appreciate visits to the ruins of Byzantine, Phoenician and Roman structures. Travelers who prefer leisure, Jeep or camel tours of the Sahara are suitable. Holidays by the sea can be spent at Cape Sidi Fredge and the Turquoise Coast.

Tangier is considered one of the main resort points in Morocco. The city is attractive because it is simultaneously washed by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.

In Tangier, you can not only relax by the water, but also see the famous oriental bazaars, colonial architecture and picturesque gardens with half a century of trees. In Al Hoceim and Saidiya, tourists will enjoy the distinctiveness of Moroccan culture and be able to spend a measured vacation.

The most popular resort in Tunisia is Hammamet. It is known for its refined beaches and numerous thalassotherapy salons. Tourists are invited to visit architectural monuments, ancient ruins and manicured gardens, dazzling with a variety of flora. Other popular resorts are Monastir, Carthage and Djerba.

Mediterranean cruises

Many tourists choose a cruise vacation in the Mediterranean Sea due to the fact that in a short period of time you can visit several countries and travel at any time of the year. The tours last 3-13 days.

Depending on the class of the trip, the set of services and the type of room may differ:

Standard- low prices, a huge selection of services and entertainment, cabins without windows.
Premium- luxurious interiors, high level service, fine cuisine, rooms with a porthole.
Suite- the liners are designed for a small number of passengers, the staff fulfills any requirements of the clients, cabins with balconies.

A range of leisure activities can be included in the ticket price or purchased separately. On board, vacationers spend time in a room, attend cultural events on offer, or use their time as they see fit.

The liner makes sea traffic in the evening or at night, so tourists are offered a wide range of entertainment:

cafes, bars, restaurants;
sports grounds and swimming pools;
dance lessons;
spa salons;
cinemas;
master classes for every taste;
playgrounds and animators;
libraries, internet centers and gambling rooms;
discos, stand-up shows, theatrical performances.

Before going on a trip, you must arrive at the landing site. The tourist also has the opportunity to join the tour during the trip from any port where the ship makes a stop.

Cruise ships usually depart from European ports:

Civitavecchia;
Trieste;
Savona.

Every day the liner stops at a new port. Daylight hours are reserved for sightseeing on land. While the ship is docked, vacationers go on excursions or explore the city on their own.

Travel by sea is carried out on ships:

Royal Princess;
Pacific Princess;
Queen Vicroria;
Costa.

A feature of Mediterranean cruises is the abundance of shore excursions. The sea is surrounded by many countries in ancient and rich history, which allows you to expand your horizons and visit the most significant places in a short time. Tours in the Mediterranean cover the west and east coasts.

To the program of stops cruise liners includes the ports of such cities:

1. Italy:

2. Spain:

Barcelona;
Alicante;
Malaga;
Cadiz;
Ibiza;
Palma de Mallorca.

3. France:

Ajaccio;
Marseilles;
Toulon.

4. Greece:

Santorini;
Corfu;
Katakolon;
Piraeus.

5. Croatia:

Split;
Dubrovnik.

6. Malta - Valletta.

7. Montenegro - Kotor.

8. Portugal - Lisbon.

9. Cyprus - Limassol.

10. Morocco - Casablanca.

11. Monaco - Monte Carlo.

The countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea allow you to experience their culture and history, in addition to providing a comfortable stay under the sun. The variety of Mediterranean resorts will help you choose a vacation spot for every taste and budget.

Article formatting: Mila Friedan

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