Map of the Mediterranean Sea in Russian. Hospitable countries and the best resorts of the Mediterranean. Egypt: cities, hotels, prices, interesting places

The Mediterranean Sea is a unique basin that separates three continents. The Mediterranean countries include countries of the European Union, Asia and Africa. Tourists always associate the Mediterranean with a mild climate, warm water, delicious food and have a good rest. The area of ​​this world's largest sea is more than 3 million square meters. km, and it includes the Black Sea, the Sea of ​​Marmara and the Sea of ​​Azov. Let's consider which countries wash the waters of the Mediterranean and where it is better to relax according to your interests.

It washes 21 states. All these countries are located on the gentle coasts of the big sea in the world, and the coastal zone of these countries is different well-maintained beaches and warm gentle waters. Let's look at where the Mediterranean Sea is located on the world map with the countries around it. On coastline Mediterranean Sea There are resorts in the following countries:

  1. Morocco - Tangier and Saidia.
  2. Spain – , Almeria, Barcelona, ​​Cartagena, Ibiza, .
  3. Algeria - Bejaia, Oran, Annaba.
  4. France - Cote d'Azur, Nice, Saint-Tropez, Corsica.
  5. Tunisia – Kelibia, Monastir, Bizerte.
  6. Italy – Alghero, Sardinia, Syracuse.
  7. Libya - Tripoli, Kufra, Misrata, Ubari, Tobruk.
  8. Monaco - The entire state is one whole resort.
  9. Egypt - Alexandria, Dellis, El Alamen, Baltim.
  10. Malta - Valletta, Sliema, St Julian's, Bugiba.
  11. Israel - Nahariya, Haifa, Ashdod, Acre, Herzliya.
  12. Slovenia – Portoroz, Isoloa.
  13. Lebanon - Juni, Tyre.
  14. Croatia – Dalmatia, Istria.
  15. Syria - Latakia, Badrouseigh, Al-Samra.
  16. Bosnia and Herzegovina – Neum.
  17. Turkey - Izmir, Bodrum, Marmaris, Kemer, Antalya, Alanya, Belek.
  18. Montenegro – Budva, Milocer, Petrovac.
  19. Cyprus – Larnaca, Limassol, Protaras, Tuscany.
  20. Albania – Vlora, Himara, Saranda.
  21. Greece - Crete, Kythira, Methoni, Rhodes.

Also, such countries on the Mediterranean Sea as the Palestinian State and the Northern Region of Cyprus, as well as Dhakelia, Gibraltar and Akrotiri have access to sunny beaches. Undoubtedly, the most popular among tourists from this list of countries are Greece, Spain, Turkey, Cyprus, Egypt, Italy and France. This is where beach lovers from all over the world flock, because there are equipped best beaches and resort areas.

The depth of the Mediterranean Sea is quite varied and depends on the region. Conventionally, the Mediterranean can be divided into three main basins - western, central and eastern. What depth is in each of the basins can be seen on the depth map, because the bottom topography of such a huge reservoir differs in structure in each region. The maximum depth is observed in southern Greece in the deep-sea trench and is 5120 m. However, the average depth of the Mediterranean Sea does not exceed 1540 m.

The length and width of the Mediterranean Sea is not indicated accurately; the fact is that the basin is constantly changing its boundaries and it is almost impossible to calculate exact values. The length of the Mediterranean Sea from the northernmost to the southernmost section is approximately 3200 km, and from the western to the easternmost point 1200 km. total area is 2,500 sq. km. The water temperature in the winter months is 12C°, and in high summer season 25C°.

An interesting fact: scientists believe that the Mediterranean basin is nothing more than the remains of the ancient prehistoric Tethys oceanic basin, which covered the main part of the planet with water. In addition to the Mediterranean, these remnants also include the Black Sea, the Aral and the Caspian. Today from Atlantic Ocean The Mediterranean is connected by a strait called the Strait of Gibraltar, this is known to everyone, but not many know that this strait passes between two rocks that were on Earth in the times of ancient heroes and were then called the Pillars of Hercules.

To understand what washes the Mediterranean Sea, you should look at geographical images of the planet. On satellite images and paper maps you can see that four largest peninsulas crash into the waters of the Mediterranean Sea: the Apennine, Balkan, Iberian peninsulas and Asia Minor. Also in the Mediterranean waters there is a cluster of the largest islands, which are also loved by tourists, in the first place are Sicily, Ibiza, Crete, Malta and Rhodes.

In the Mediterranean Sea there are seas: 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. Relics of the Tethys Ocean are also the Aral, Caspian, Black and Marmara seas, confined to its deepest depressions. It is likely that Tethys was once completely surrounded by land, and there was an isthmus between North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula, in the area of ​​​​the Strait of Gibraltar. 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 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 (from east to west): Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco. In the northeast, the Dardanelles Strait connects it with the Sea of ​​Marmara and then the Bosporus Strait with the Black Sea, and in the southeast with the Suez Canal with the Red Sea.

Area 2500 thousand km².

The volume of water is 3839 thousand km³.

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

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

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 is divided into several basins with relatively steep continental slopes, 2000-4000 m deep; Along the coast, the basin is 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 - Algerian-Provencal basin with maximum depth over 2800 m, combining the depressions of the Alboran, Balearic and Ligurian seas, as well as the depression of the 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 (depressions of the Levantine, 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) deposits of the Algerian-Provencal Basin, a significant role belongs to the salt-bearing evaporite strata (over 1.5-2 km thick), forming structures characteristic of salt tectonics. Along 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 underwater mountains (Aeolian Islands, Vavilova 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 (Levantine) basins are filled with sedimentary strata, including thick products of river outflows, especially the Nile. At the bottom of these basins, according to geophysical research, the Hellenic deep-sea trench and the Central Mediterranean Shaft are identified - a large arch up to 500-800 m high. Along the foot of the continental slope of Cyrenaica, the Libyan Trench can be traced, very clearly expressed in relief and weakly filled with sediments. The basins of the Mediterranean Sea are very different in the time of their formation. 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 - mid-Miocene, Pliocene. At the end of the Miocene (Messianic Age), shallow basins already existed over most of the Mediterranean Sea. The depth of the Algerian-Provencal basin during the deposition of salts in the Messinian Age was about 1-1.5 km. The salts accumulated as a result of strong evaporation and brine concentration due to the influx of sea water into a closed body of water through a strait that existed south of Gibraltar.

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

The hydrological regime of the Mediterranean Sea is formed under the influence of high evaporation and general climatic conditions. conditions. Prevalence of flow fresh water above the arrival leads to a decrease in level, which is the reason for the constant influx of surface less salty waters from Atlantic. OK. and the Black Sea. 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 thresholds of the straits. Basic water exchange occurs through the Strait of Gibraltar. (the upper reaches bring 42.32 thousand km³ per year of Atlantic water, and the lower reaches 40.80 thousand km³ of Mediterranean water); 350 and 180 km³ of water per year flow in and out, respectively, through the Dardanelles.

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

The speed of steady currents in the open part of the sea is 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 on 3. In August, the average water temperature varies from 19 to 25 °C. - at 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, intense convective mixing develops in regions with increased density, 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 bottom temperature and salinity, the Mediterranean Sea is one of the warmest and saltiest seas in the world. (12.6-13.4 °C and 38.4-38.7, respectively). Relates. Water transparency is up to 50-60 m, color is intense blue.

The tides are mostly semidiurnal, their magnitude is less than 1 m, but in some areas. At points, in combination with wind surges, level fluctuations can reach 4 m (Gentoa Bay, off the northern coast of Corsica, etc.). Strong tidal currents are observed in narrow straits (Messinsky Strait). Max. waves are observed 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 type of climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. In winter, a trough 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. Are developing local winds: mistral in the area of ​​the Gulf of Lyon and Bor 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 clouds and little precipitation. During the summer months there are dry fogs and dusty haze, blown out of Africa by the southerly sirocco wind. In the Eastern Basin, stable northerly winds - etesia - develop.

The average air temperature in January varies from 14-16°C southern shores up to 7-10°C in the north, in August - from 22-24°C in the north to 25-30°C 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 is 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, the minimum in July - August, the maximum in December.

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

Vegetation and animal world The Mediterranean Sea is characterized by a relatively weak quantitative development of phyto- and zooplankton, which entails. the small number of larger animals that feed on them, including fish. The amount of phytoplankton in 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 (peridinea and diatoms predominate).

The fauna of the Mediterranean Sea is characterized by great species diversity, but the number of representatives of the department. there are few species. There are crayfish, one species of seal (the white-bellied seal); sea ​​turtle. There are 550 species of fish (mackerel, herring, anchovies, mullet, coryphenaceae, tuna, bonito, horse mackerel, etc.). About 70 species of endemic fish, including stingrays, anchovy species, gobies, and mora. blennies, wrasse and needlefish. Of the edible shellfish, the most important are the oyster, the Mediterranean-Black Sea mussel, and the sea date. Of the invertebrates, octopuses, squids, sepia, crabs, lobsters are common; numerous species of jellyfish and siphonophores; In some areas, especially in the Aegean Sea, sponges and red coral are found.

The coast of the Northern Sea has long been densely populated and is distinguished by a high level of economic development (especially the countries located along its northern coast).

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

The transport importance of the sea area for Western Europe is continuously increasing due to the increasing dependence of these countries on the import of raw materials. The role of natural gas is especially great in oil transportation. The Siberian Sea is an important “oil” route between Western Europe and the Middle East. The share of southern ports (the main ones are Marseille, Trieste, Genoa) in the supply of Western Europe with oil is constantly growing (about 40% in 1972). The ports of the Siberian Sea 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. The transportation of various types of raw materials, metal ores and bauxites, and agricultural products is also large. products through the Suez Canal, through which Western Europe links with Asia and Australia. Largest ports- Marseille with outports in France, Genoa, Augusta, Trieste in Italy, Sidra, Marsa Brega in Libya.

Numerous industrial enterprises have been created on the coast of the North Sea and on the islands. The chemical and metallurgical industries developed using raw materials delivered by sea. From 1960 to 1975, the islands of Sardinia and Sicily in Italy, the mouth of the Rhone in France, and others became major hubs of the chemical industry. Oil and gas production began on the 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 Ocean. Industrialization of the coast, urban growth, and development of recreational areas lead to intense pollution of the coastal strip. Widely known resorts Cote d'Azur(Riviera) in France and Italy, resorts of the Levantine coast and the Balearic Islands in Spain, etc.

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

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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 were able to derive direct tourist benefits from this remarkable neighborhood. It is on the numerous coasts of the Mediterranean Sea that the world's most famous resorts are located, to which millions of vacationers from all over the world flock every year. The countries of two continents - Africa and Eurasia, as well as numerous islands and archipelagos provide all the conditions for a good beach holiday: albeit not always warm, but quite clean waters, a sandy or pebble coast with a remarkably wide coastline, lush fruit-bearing nature and a lot of historical ruins around. What is especially pleasant is that a holiday in the Mediterranean bush can be classified as budget: a little more expensive than domestic “souths” and at the same time a whole range of entertainment and, for now, alas, a level of service that is mainly unattainable in the homeland.

Mediterranean countries

Let us not bend our hearts when we say that the Mediterranean is one of those successful tourism destinations in all respects, capable of offering the demanding tourist almost everything, immediately and at reasonable prices. What is there on the hospitable shores of the “middle sea”: plant-based relaxation in flip-flops 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 raised.

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 Western Wall in Jerusalem or burning through what they have acquired through “backbreaking labor” at golden parties in Monaco, inhaling the smell of eternity in the Giza Valley or listening to the chirping of cicadas in emerald Corfu, following in the footsteps of the Grand Duchesses on the streets of Istanbul or looking at Fez drowning in the red midday haze.

Among other pleasant bonuses of the direction - short flight(most resorts can be reached in no more than 4 hours), a unified visa regime (we’re talking about Schengen), which allows you to go to your neighbors along the coastline for the evening without hassle, in some cases, there is no visa formalities at all - as in Tunisia or Turkey. Among other things, the Mediterranean is the most financially accessible of the foreign resort seas - you can find a holiday here starting from 200 EUR “from the nose”. Finally, the climate here is closest to the “universal” climate - swimming season from May to October, absence of sweltering heat in summer and mild, moderately sunny winters. The only downside is the extraordinary popularity of Mediterranean beaches, which in terms of the number of bodies per square meter of area easily surpasses the Klondike of the Gold Rush. However, for fans of secluded relaxation, the Mediterranean Sea has in store several secret corners, such as small greek islands, where nothing prevents you from consigning everyday life to oblivion.

This question is asked much more often by tourism enthusiasts than by schoolchildren. This sea plays an important role in the lives of not only the modern inhabitants of its coast, it has influenced the emergence of many civilizations.

"The Sea in the Middle of the Earth"

The Mediterranean Sea began to be used long before new continents were discovered. It seemed to people that this large body of water was located in the very center of the planet. This is how the sea got its name.

“The sea in the middle of the Earth” became the most important trade route. It helped transport from Eurasia to Africa. Not only trade ties were established between peoples. Ethnic groups living on the coast sought to establish diplomatic contacts with other countries. Alliances were formed with some, and hostilities were fought with others. But even wars to some extent had a positive effect on the development of mankind. Captured peoples adopted the experience and culture of the occupiers. As a result of cultural exchange, new civilizations emerged.

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 go on a trip?

Located on the sea coast great amount countries It will take more than one vacation to get to know everyone:

  • Malta. Many people mistakenly believe that the state consists of just one island. In fact, in addition to the main part, Malta, the state includes the island of Gozo (also called Gozo) and several smaller inhabited islands. The small state is inhabited by only about 500,000 thousand people. Thanks to its climate in 2011, Malta was recognized as one of the... best countries to live in peace.
  • Italy. Here tourists will find relaxation for body and soul. 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. National cuisine is not just tasty, but also healthy. Beach holiday in this country is 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 will face a large fine or arrest for such behavior. More than half a million people visit Italian nudist beaches every year.
  • Spain. This country seems like a place for endless celebrations. 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 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 specifics of a region will be determined by its location. Being in the south of the country, travelers often feel like they are in some Spanish or Italian town. And this feeling is not far from the truth. Most Mediterranean cities are really similar to each other. Some settlements 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.
  • Türkiye. This country is most popular among Russian tourists. Europeans are much less common here. For thousands of Russians, Antalya, Mersin, Istanbul and some other Turkish cities are a permanent destination summer holiday during several years. Türkiye attracts cozy beaches, architectural attractions and local cuisine. Prices in this country are significantly lower than in Europe. The Turkish lira is cheaper than the dollar or euro. It is noteworthy that while in Turkey, you can relax not only on the Mediterranean, but also on the Black Sea.

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

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

What is this amazing part of the World Ocean like? Where it is located, 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 located?

The Mediterranean Sea is located between Asia, Africa and Europe, surrounded by continents, and only through the Strait of Gibraltar is it connected to the North Atlantic, the Bosporus Strait to the Black Sea, and through the Suez Canal is it bordered by the Red Sea.

2. Which countries does it wash?

The Mediterranean Sea is named so due to its location - among the continents (lands). The waters of this sea wash the coasts of more than 22 countries from west to east, 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 area of ​​the sea is represented by many islands, varying in area and population, the largest of which are considered:

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

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

3. History and secrets of the Mediterranean Sea

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

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

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

Educational film on English language about the Mediterranean Sea

4. Natural characteristics of the Mediterranean Sea

The Mediterranean Sea has an area of ​​2965.5 thousand square meters. km. The average depth of the sea is 1500 m. The greatest is 5092 m and is located in the depression Ionian Sea (West Side Peloponnese peninsula). The total length of the sea is 3,800 m.

Salinity level of some seas:

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

4.1 Climate

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

Climatic conditions are determined by the location of the sea - the subtropical zone determines this climate into an independent type “Mediterranean”.

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

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

Air humidity in summer is 50 - 65%, and in winter from 65 to 80%. Cloudiness in summer is 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 water temperatures of no more than 25 degrees: Valencia, Malta and Heraklion. The coasts of Barcelona, ​​Athens and Malaga are considered even less hot (up to 22 degrees of water).

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. Thus, the bottom of the western basin is more flat, and the bottom of the eastern basin has depressions and ridges stretching from Cyprus to the Apennine Peninsula.

Here, under the water column, there are cones of active and extinct volcanoes and tectonic depressions. Yes, the most deep place in the sea - the Hellenic Trench, 5121 m deep. 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;
  • Lyonsky;
  • Genoese;
  • Taranto;
  • Sidra or Greater Sirte;
  • Gabes or Little Sirte.

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

Water circulation occurs 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. Water transparency is from 50 to 60 m. The water has a rich blue color.

4.4 Ebbs and flows

Does the sea have ebbs and flows (periodic fluctuations in water levels 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 from the Atlantic by the narrow Strait of Gibraltar and, accordingly, the gravitational force of the moon does not act on it.

You can read more about the ebb and flow of tides on the Wikipedia pages

Also, the tides are influenced by depth, water salinity, atmospheric pressure, and coastal topography. The highest tides are observed in the bay called “Gabes”, which is located in the northern part of Africa and this is due to its huge shape (100 km in length and width).

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

You can find the forecast of Mediterranean wave heights and tides on the Mediterranean coast of Israel on the website of Oceanographic and Limnological Research https://isramar.ocean.org.il/isramar2009/TideHadera/default.aspx

5. Mediterranean Life

The fauna of the Mediterranean Sea is represented by animals and flora, which is related to the geological history of the sea and living conditions.

5.1 Plant life

Despite the scarce phytoplankton found in upper layers sea, the vegetation here is diverse: more than 800 species of green, brown, red algae and plants. Notable is the world's largest sea grass, Posidonia oceanica, which has proliferated in colonies (more than 700 km). This is one of the oldest plants, more than 100 thousand years old.

5.2 Fauna

The fauna of the Mediterranean Sea is diverse, but the number of resident species is not large, which is due to the poor development of plankton in Mediterranean waters.

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

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

5.3 Fishes of the Mediterranean Sea

Winter period is the most massive for accumulation different types fish, since in other months (spring-summer) they spawn and feed, so they stay 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 stingrays, 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 species of flying fish off the Israeli coast:

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

5.4 Dangerous inhabitants of the Mediterranean Sea

Sharks- not only terrifying inhabitants of the sea, but also irreplaceable cleaners of the sea spaces 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 spines located in the tail part of the body.

Electric Stingray– capable of giving any attacker an electric shock.

6. Coastal features

North coast has a complex topography: the shores are high, rocky and steep with large bays.

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

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

6.1 Israel's sea coast

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

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

6.2 Port cities of Israel


  • adaptation to the Mediterranean climate - leisurely summer walks along the sunny coast;
  • apply protective creams against sun rays;
  • beware of marine life;
  • don't forget about high waves, rocky bottom and very dangerous rip currents.

You can read more about the phenomenon of rip currents on Wikipedia.

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

The ancient Mediterranean Sea had many names:

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

This sea includes in its vastness a lot shallow 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 sponge”, since the dried skeletons of this inhabitant were used as washcloths.

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

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

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 misconceptions contains many interesting facts about the Mediterranean Sea.

— interesting article, which characterizes the Mediterranean Sea.

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