All about the Mediterranean Sea. Mediterranean Countries washed by the Mediterranean 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, its color can surprise you with its beauty and richness, the sound of the waves can calm you down, and fishing can be a 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 in English 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 1,500 m. The greatest is 5,092 m and is located in the depression of the Ionian Sea (the western part of the 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 the earth’s surface. Climate is a long-term, established weather pattern, as opposed 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. Thus, the deepest place in the sea is 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 flora and fauna, which is associated with the geological history of the sea and living conditions.

5.1 Plant life

Despite the scarce phytoplankton found in the upper layers of the sea, the vegetation here is diverse: more than 800 species of green, brown, red algae and plants. Notable is the 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

The winter period is the most widespread for the accumulation of different species of 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 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. Features of the coast

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

The Mediterranean Sea is famous for the habitat of such an animal as the “sponge”, which later received the name “toilet 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.

- an interesting article characterizing the Mediterranean Sea.

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

The island of Mallorca in the Balearic Islands group

The Mediterranean Sea is the only one in the World Ocean whose waters wash the shores of three parts of the world - Europe, Asia and Africa. Human exploration of the Mediterranean has a 4,000-year history.

The greatest civilizations of the world flourished on the shores of the sea: Egyptian, Persian, Phoenician, Assyrian, Greek, Roman. The ancient Romans even called it “Mare nostrum” - “Our Sea”. It served as a source of myths about the gods, was and remains the center of art and science, history and philosophy. The Mediterranean region is the most important center of migration of peoples, trade, and the spread of cultures and religions. The sea directly and indirectly feeds the population of coastal states and provides them with work. Therefore, it is clear how important the state of the natural environment of this huge inland reservoir is. Meanwhile, the environmental situation here is increasingly causing concern. It is not for nothing that the famous oceanologist Zh.I. Cousteau called the Mediterranean Sea a “garbage dump.”

Rock of Gibraltar

Nature. The Mediterranean Sea extends deep into the land and is one of the most isolated sea basins. Only the Strait of Gibraltar, narrow (up to 15 km wide) and relatively shallow (the smallest depth above the rapids is about 300 m), connects it with the Atlantic Ocean, and through the even smaller straits of the Dardanelles and Bosporus (depths above the rapids 40-50 m), separated The Sea of ​​Marmara is connected to the Black Sea. The Suez Canal provides only transport links between the Red and Mediterranean Seas; the natural conditions of the latter are not affected by the canal.

The area of ​​the Mediterranean Sea is 2.5 million km2, the volume of water is 3.6 million km3, the average depth is 1440 m, the greatest is 5121 m. In terms of size and depth, it is one of the significant seas of the World Ocean.

The coastline of the sea is very dissected, there are many peninsulas and islands (the most significant are Sicily, Sardinia, Cyprus, Corsica, Crete). The Apennine Peninsula and the island of Sicily divide the sea into two large basins: western and eastern (divided into central and eastern). The western part of the sea is connected to the eastern shallow Tunisian and narrow Messina Straits. Each of the basins includes several “sub-basins” called seas. These are the Alboran, Ligurian, Tyrrhenian seas in the western basin; Adriatic, Ionian, Aegean, Levant* - in the central and eastern.

The relief of the seabed is quite dissected. The shelf is narrow, generally no wider than 40 km. The continental slope is predominantly very steep and cut by submarine canyons. The bed of the sea in the western basin is a plain on which seamounts stand out, especially in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Here, Italian geologists recently discovered an active underwater volcano unknown to science. It is located halfway from Naples to Sicily, its peak is 500 m below sea level. In the eastern basin of the sea there is a complexly dissected median ridge and a series of deep-sea depressions (near the Ionian Islands, south of Crete and Rhodes). One of these depressions has the greatest depth.

The Mediterranean Sea is located in the subtropical zone and is characterized by a special Mediterranean climate: mild winters and hot, dry summers. The air temperature in January varies from 8-10°C in the northern regions of the sea, to 14-16°C on the southern coast. In the hottest month - August - the highest temperature of 28-30°C is observed along the east coast.

During the year, northwestern and western winds prevail over the sea, only in the southwest in summer - eastern ones. In winter, Atlantic cyclones often invade and cause storms. Some coastal areas of the sea are characterized by local winds. In the east there is a bora" - a cold north-east wind, sometimes reaching hurricane force; in the Gulf of Lions the mistral blows - a cold, dry north or north-east wind of great strength, of the same nature. In the Aegean Sea, stable north winds - etesia - are characteristic in the summer The hot sirocco wind often blows from African deserts. It carries a large amount of dust, and the air temperature rises to 40°C or more. Strong local winds influence the hydrological conditions in the sea. They cause surges of water in coastal areas and contribute to the development of density (convective) mixing processes.

The volcano island of Stromboli in the Tyrrhenian Sea

What is the water balance of the sea made up of? River flow, correlated with the size of the sea, is small - on average about 420 km3/year, atmospheric precipitation - 1000 km3/year. The main expenditure part of the balance is evaporation from the sea surface - about 3100 km3/year. This leads to a decrease in sea level and causes a compensatory flow of water from the Atlantic Ocean and the Black Sea. With such a water balance, the renewal time of the waters of the Mediterranean Sea is approximately 80-100 years.

The main water exchange between the sea and the adjacent part of the Atlantic Ocean occurs through the Strait of Gibraltar. The high threshold in the strait isolates the sea from the invasion of deep Atlantic waters. Water from the ocean enters the sea only in the upper layer 150-180 m thick, and deeper, saltier Mediterranean waters flow into the Atlantic. Through the Bosphorus and Dardanelles straits, desalinated Black Sea waters penetrate into the Mediterranean Sea in the surface layer, and in the deep layers, salty and dense water spreads from the Mediterranean Sea to the Black Sea. Moreover, the volume of water exchange through the Strait of Gibraltar is many times higher than in the Black Sea straits.

The formation of the general circulation of water in the surface layer of the Mediterranean Sea involves such main factors as the nature of the winds, coastal runoff and the slope of the sea level. In addition, the ruggedness of the coastline and bottom topography have a noticeable impact. These surface Atlantic waters, entering the sea through the Strait of Gibraltar, move east along the southern coasts in the form of a meandering current. Through the Strait of Tunis, the main current passes to the eastern part of the sea and continues to move along the African coast. Having reached the Levant Sea, the surface current turns north and then west and moves along the coast of Asia Minor. In the Ionian, Adriatic and Aegean seas, closed counterclockwise gyres are formed.

The surface water temperature of the Mediterranean Sea generally increases from northwest to southeast. The lowest surface temperature is observed in February - from 9-10°C in the north of the Aegean Sea to 16-17°C in the Levant Sea. In August, it changes from 20-21°C in the Gulf of Lyon to 27-28°C (and even higher) in the Levant Sea. With depth, spatial differences in temperature quickly decrease; at a horizon of 200 m they no longer exceed 4°C. The deep water column is characterized by a very uniform temperature. At a horizon of 1000 m, its values ​​are in the range of 12.9-13.9°C, and in the bottom layer - 12.6-13.4°C. In general, due to the isolation of the sea, the temperature of its deep waters is characterized by high values: at a horizon of 2000 m it is 8-10°C higher than in the ocean.

Due to freshwater deficit and strong evaporation from the surface, the Mediterranean Sea is one of the saltiest in the World Ocean. Its salinity almost everywhere exceeds 38‰, reaching 39-39.5‰ on the eastern shores. The average salinity of the sea is about 38‰, while that of the ocean is 35‰.

An important hydrological feature of the Mediterranean Sea is good ventilation of the bottom layers of water, despite the great depths. This is due to the active spread of density (convective) mixing, which develops in the winter season when the sea surface cools. The depth of penetration of convection in different areas of the sea is not the same. Its main centers are the northern part of the Algerian-Provencal basin, the Cretan basin of the Aegean Sea (convection depth of 2000 m or more), and the Adriatic Sea (more than 1000 m). It is in these areas that deep Mediterranean waters are formed. In the Tyrrhenian, Ionian and Levantine seas, winter vertical circulation covers a layer of up to 200 m, and in other parts of the Mediterranean Sea it is limited to the upper layer, mainly up to 100 m. The intensive development of convective mixing in the sea (especially in these “foci”) ensures good aeration of the entire water column The concentration of dissolved oxygen in the water column in different water areas varies from 6.6 to 3.3% by volume.

The waters of the Mediterranean Sea are poor in nutrient nutrients, since their supply from the outside (with river runoff and ocean waters) is small. Therefore, the sea is generally characterized by low biological productivity. The total production of phyto- and zooplankton here is several times lower than in the Black Sea. However, in areas where deep water rises to the surface (for example, in the southern Adriatic), the concentration of biomass is higher and comparable to productive areas of the World Ocean.

The flora and fauna of the sea are mainly of Atlantic origin. The fauna is characterized by great species diversity. Fish are represented by 550 species, and about 70 of them are endemic. The catches are dominated by sardine, mackerel, mullet, anchovy, bonito, flounder, tuna and various types of sharks. Common shellfish include oysters, mussels (they are specially grown on the coasts of Spain, France, and Italy), as well as octopus and squid. Crustaceans are represented by shrimp, crabs, and lobsters. Among the marine mammals in the sea, there are dolphins, sea turtles and the monk seal, the population of which is currently on the verge of extinction. Life in the sea is unevenly distributed. It is most developed near the coast, especially in areas influenced by river flow. With a favorable combination of various factors, local areas of active fishing are formed in the sea.

Economy. The territories of 17 states overlook the Mediterranean Sea, including such industrialized countries as France, Italy, Spain, Turkey, Israel, Egypt and others. More than 130 million people permanently live on the coast, which is about 45 thousand km long. Up to 100 million tourists are added to them every year. All this determines the important role of the Mediterranean region in the world economy. The sea serves as the most important transport route that connects the Mediterranean and Black Sea states with countries of all continents. The major Mediterranean ports (Barcelona, ​​Genoa, Piraeus, Beirut, Haifa, Alexandria and others) carry the main cargo and passenger traffic, both short-sea and long-distance. The Suez Canal, the shortest route connecting the Mediterranean Sea with the Indian Ocean, occupies a special place in transport links. The structure of shipping is dominated by oil and oil products, gas, and general cargo.

Oil and gas deposits have been discovered on the shelf of some areas of the sea. Oil and gas potential has been identified off the coasts of Spain, France, Italy, Greece and African countries. Exploration drilling is carried out on the shelves of the Adriatic and Aegean seas and the African coast.

Fishing and production of seafood (molluscs, crustaceans) at sea is mainly carried out on small vessels in relatively small water areas and is of a local nature. Fishing is carried out mainly in the coastal zone, near islands, on banks and in areas where deep waters enriched with nutrients rise to the surface.

The most important economic sector in the Mediterranean is recreation. The sea coast is one of the world's main regions of mass recreation and tourism. The main resort areas are located in the coastal regions of France, Spain, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Turkey, and Tunisia.

Seafood at the fish market in Naples

Ecology. The natural features and socio-economic characteristics of the internal Mediterranean Sea, the high degree of its economic development, and the high population density on the coasts could not but affect the ecological state of the basin, which is of great concern. Chemical pollution has the most significant impact on the ecology of the sea.

The largest amount of pollutants enters the Mediterranean Sea from the shores, especially in areas with high development of production (industry, transport, agriculture), recreation and tourism. It is here that waste from economic activities accumulates most quickly, a significant part of which ends up in the sea in various ways. A serious source of marine pollution is the runoff of more than 70 large and small rivers, carrying industrial and household waste from vast areas of drainage basins. Offshore oil production makes a significant contribution to the pollution of some coastal areas. During exploration and production drilling, drilling fluids that are harmful to organisms enter the water. During the operation of wells, accidents at drilling rigs and, as a consequence, oil spills on the sea surface are not uncommon. Tanker transportation of oil and petroleum products also significantly pollutes the marine environment. According to available data, from 500 thousand to 1 million tons of oil and petroleum products enter the sea annually.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in the early 90s, the following amounts of the main types of pollutants (in tons) entered the Mediterranean Sea annually from various sources on the shore: organic substances - 12 million, phosphorus compounds 320 thousand, nitrogen - 800 thousand, mercury - 100, lead - 3800, chromium - 2400, zinc - 21, phenols - 12, synthetic detergents - 60, organochlorine pesticides - 90 thousand.

The overall level of pollution in the Mediterranean Sea is high, although it varies from area to area. In open waters, the water is still quite clean, but the coastal areas are most polluted, in particular in the vicinity of river mouths. A typical example is a coastal area near the mouth of the Tiber, where the river carries the waste of the three-million-year-old Rome and where the number of pathogenic bacteria exceeds the permissible norm by an average of 200 times. Thousands of tons of various pollutants enter the Adriatic every year with the waters of the Po River.

Near large cities, local pollution zones are formed due to the discharge of untreated municipal wastewater and industrial waste into the sea. Chronically high levels of pollution are observed in the gulfs of Eleusis (Greece), Izmir, Tunis and in the Alexandria region. The amount of harmful impurities entering the sea in these areas is such that self-purification does not occur in sea water; impurities remain and accumulate in it. Vast areas of water are polluted with oil. It is found in the sea in the form of thin surface films, oil lumps and clots. Thus, significant concentrations of oil clots were discovered in the Ionian Sea and between Libya and Sicily.

Sea pollution and other types of anthropogenic impact are unfavorable and sometimes have a detrimental effect on living organisms. For example, severe pollution of the Adriatic led to the death of many of its inhabitants. Significant environmental damage is caused by fishing in excess of permissible standards; As a result, catches of valuable fish species are declining.

It cannot be said that society is indifferently observing the negative phenomena occurring in the Mediterranean ecosystem. The Mediterranean Sea is one of the regions of the World Ocean in which international cooperation is actively developing to study and protect the natural environment, restore and preserve the natural ecological state. With the participation of the UN and UNEP, since the 70s, several international programs have been implemented, covering all the main environmental problems of the Mediterranean region. These include the Blue Plan for action in the region, adopted more than 100 years ago, which includes a program of long-term scientific research and monitoring, taking into account socio-economic aspects, and the development of a set of measures to protect the environment. Almost all Mediterranean countries cooperate in these international initiatives and intergovernmental agreements. Currently, at least 14 states are implementing national marine monitoring programs within the framework of UNEP. The results of the work and further plans are regularly discussed at representative meetings and forums. The last international conference dedicated to the oceanographic problems of the eastern Mediterranean and the Black Sea was held in Athens in February 1999. Scientists from Russia, including Moscow State University, took part in it.

Piazza San Marco flooded during a strong storm surge

Venice needs protection. This fabulous city, as if ghostly floating above the greenish waters of the lagoon, with unique palaces, squares, and canals, is in danger. There is a real threat of losing the priceless historical heritage of humanity.

The main problem of Venice is acque alt - “high waters”; abnormally high storm surges, in which sea water floods parts of the city, including the famous Piazza San Marco. Storm surges in Venice are created under a certain combination of hydrometeorological conditions, which in itself is an interesting natural phenomenon. Its main components are surge southern winds (sirocco), local decreases in atmospheric pressure (baric depressions), as well as astronomical tides and seiche level fluctuations. With the simultaneous maximum development of these factors, the water in the Venetian Lagoon can theoretically rise by 2.5 m, which is 1.8 m above the level of St. Mark's Square. Fortunately, this has not yet been observed, but on November 4, 1966, the water level rose to 1.94 m. On this day, St. Mark's Square found itself under a layer of water about 1 m thick. Already when the level rose by 1.1 m, it was flooded up to 15% of the city's area, and when it rises by 1.3 m, water covers up to 60% of the area of ​​Venice.

Storm surges have always been observed in Venice. Normal cases of “high waters” occur up to 50 times per winter; very high surges exceeding 1.3 m occurred about 20 times in the 20th century. However, since the 60s, the frequency and height of surges have increased, which prompted scientists to intensify research into this dangerous phenomenon.

Scientific work has shown that the progressive increase in water levels in Venice can be due to two main reasons: a general rise in sea levels and a lowering of the earth's surface within the city. As a result of slow fluctuations, sea levels have risen by 9 cm since the beginning of the century, that is, a little. According to estimates, the main reason for the acceleration of the subsidence of the earth's surface in the Venice region is the pumping of groundwater for technical needs, which began in the 50s. Since the 70s, water pumping has stopped, but nevertheless, since the beginning of the twentieth century, Venice has irreversibly dropped by 30 cm! The combined effects of abnormal subsidence and eustatic sea level rise fully explain the increase in surges and the increased impact of “high waters” on the city.

Bay of Naples

To prevent flooding in Venice, different options are being considered: erecting surge barriers, reducing their magnitude, or raising the city. Raising flooded areas of the city (at least the area of ​​​​Piazza San Marco) by at least 40 cm in order to protect against the most frequent surges is very technically difficult, risky and expensive. This was shown by an experiment involving pumping sludge and cement into the soil.

Reducing surges is possible by narrowing the passages into the Venice Lagoon, which was confirmed by modeling. However, in this case, water exchange will be completely insufficient to ensure a favorable ecological state of the lagoon, and it is already heavily polluted. Here it is appropriate to recall the not entirely successful partial closure of the Neva Bay, undertaken to protect St. Petersburg from floods.

A project has also been developed to temporarily block passages to the lagoon during the development of dangerous storm surges. It provides for the construction of movable transverse gates at the bottom of each passage, allowing the lagoon to be closed in case of abnormal “high waters”. In this case, a storm warning must be received at least 12 hours before the surge.

Discussion of various projects did not lead to a final decision. In its development, the main goal is to provide a favorable ecological situation in the Venetian Lagoon, which has not yet been sufficiently studied. As can be seen from the publications, the idea of ​​​​building a dam in the lagoon has not yet been supported. Preference is given to other measures: raising land levels where possible, as well as more effective cleaning of canals.

Mediterranean Sea surrounded on all sides by earth. One glance at the map is enough to agree with this judgment. This was also known ancient Greek scientist.

• Countries and islands
• Countries
• Islands
• Eastern Mediterranean

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Features of geographical location and climate

Mediterranean Sea it's not named in vain, from all sides it touches with continents.

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

The sea in its own way geographical location is between: Asia, Europe, Africa.

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

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

Concerning bottom relief, then everything he has is typical for the sea peculiarities:

continental slope rugged by canyons;

shelf narrow.

Part Mediterranean Sea includes inland seas:

• Aegean;
• Alboran;
• Adriatic;

If you are planning a vacation on the Adriatic Sea, find out detailed information about its resorts from this article

• Balearic;
• Ionian;
• Ligurian;
• Tyrrhenian.

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

In summer observed here dry fog and a small amount precipitation.

Tourists they come en masse to these places closer to mid-summer. By July the reservoir warms up to +27 degrees.

Countries and islands

To the Mediterranean include vast territories of countries and islands. We give examples of some of them below.

Countries

• Türkiye. There are resorts here that are very popular with Russian tourists. Most of the service staff are talking in Russian, which simplifies holidays in a foreign country for our tourists. There are a lot of excellent ones here beaches, inexpensive hotels and one of the best in the world kitchens. The reservoir washes the following major Turkish cities - Mersin, Istanbul, Antalya And Izmir.
• Italy. It is located in the western Mediterranean. People come here to eat delicious pizza And spaghetti and also enjoy warm sun. Resort towns are considered Rome, Sicily And Milan.

Italy is a great place to relax not only in summer, but also in winter. Read about the winter resorts of this country here

• Spain. Ibiza, Barcelona And Majorca- these are exactly the settlements where travelers come who want to have fun and have a good time. Especially it concerns youth, loving noisy parties.
• Croatia. A country attractive for tourists, first of all, quickly gaining momentum yachting. For this purpose the state allocates multi-million dollar investment.
• Montenegro. The beach is especially worth a look Ada Boyana. Here the purest sand, which can only be found throughout Adriatic. In addition, tourism is actively developing here among nudists.
• Albania. Chic kitchen, beautiful landscapes– this is how local resorts are characterized.

In ancient times it was believed that the Mediterranean Sea was located in the center of the world. The Roman aborigines called it Inland Sea, since all its shores were conquered by them.

• Morocco. Intersect here European And Islamic traditions and cultures. This fact attracts tourists. According to statistics, people also come here to see cultural attractions. Particularly popular Casablanca.
• Tunisia. Ancients museums, mysterious artifacts, monuments architecture, memorable markets– at local resorts you can’t find any miracles.

Islands

Also in the Mediterranean a bunch of big and small islands, interesting for travelers. Among them stand out:

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

Scientists have found out that due to the catastrophic floods, which occurred 5.3 million years ago, is precisely filling occurred Mediterranean Sea. In two years such a large water basin was formed!

Eastern Mediterranean

Most often to Eastern Mediterranean include the shores of Greece, Italy and Turkey, this the opinion is wrong. If we approach this issue from a geographical point of view and look at the map, it turns out that the Eastern Mediterranean includes:

Syria;

Palestine;

Cyprus;

Have you decided to relax in Cyprus? Find out what others think about the island's hotels in this article

Lebanon;

Jordan.

Israel;

Pros and cons of holidays on the Mediterranean Sea

On the Mediterranean Sea ideal to relax in September. At this time already the heat subsides, and the water remains warm. An additional advantage is that the reservoir contains a large amount healthy salts And No dangerous poisonous plants And animals.

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

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

There are no cons. Unless, of course, you consider the scorching summer sun a disadvantage.

Today the Mediterranean Sea washes the shores of 22 countries. Considering that the states of the Mediterranean Sea are located in the subtropical climate zone, excellent conditions are created for the creation of resort bases. Today, the Mediterranean coast is a favorite destination for most tourists from all over the world.

Mediterranean cruises are an opportunity to see with your own eyes past eras, visiting monuments of antiquity, masterpieces of the Middle Ages and outstanding creations of our time. Every day of such a trip brings new impressions, new states of the Mediterranean: the sandy beaches of Tunisia and Malta, ancient Pompeii and the formidable Vesuvius, the leaning tower of Pisa, the wide boulevards of Nice and Barcelona, ​​the canals of Venice and the museums of Florence.

Cruises most often pass through European Mediterranean countries. Tourists visit Italy - the country of sun and wine, spaghetti and olive oil, haute couture and masterpieces of world architecture. And after a busy trip through its famous cities, you can relax on the sunny beaches of the island of Sardinia or stroll through the gardens and olive groves of picturesque Sicily.

Beautiful Spain is another Mediterranean country - a picturesque area with upscale resorts, rich nature and ancient cities. And, of course, sea cruises in the Mediterranean are not complete without visiting Mallorca and Ibiza.

In France, every city is a cultural monument or historical museum, a winemaking center or a luxury resort. Paris, Nice, Cannes, Bordeaux, Marseille, Avignon - attractions are found here at every step. The country's landscapes are no less picturesque: the snow-white peaks of the Alps, beautiful beaches of the Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea, medieval castles, vast vineyards and charming old distilleries.
Malta is another amazing country included in many Mediterranean cruises. This is a contrasting island, the north-eastern coast of which is densely populated, and the almost lifeless southern coast ends with sheer cliffs towards the waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Here is Valletta, a medieval walled city, one of the few remaining in Europe.

Morocco is a Mediterranean country that brings an oriental touch to Western Mediterranean cruises. It is located at the junction of European and Islamic cultures and lies on the border of the greenest mountains in Africa and the largest desert in the world.

The African countries of the Mediterranean region are no less colorful. For example, Tunisia is one of the world's oldest resorts with many historical monuments, sandy beaches and a dynamically developing tourist infrastructure. In addition to traditional beach holidays and modern hotels, Tunisia is home to ancient oriental architecture, unusual cuisine and numerous colorful markets.

Almost all countries washed by the Mediterranean Sea have their own famous resorts. Most of all, Russians love the countries of the Balkan Peninsula. The resorts of Montenegro and Croatia especially stand out.

Montenegro is a Mediterranean country famous for its resorts. Ada Boyana is the southern beach of the country, with a total length of 3.8 kilometers. The beach is covered with the best sand in the entire Adriatic. Ada Boyana Island has a triangular shape. On two sides the shores of the island are washed by the Boyana River, and on the third by the waters of the Adriatic Sea. On the island you can find excellent hotels, good entertainment - everything your heart desires. The resort town of Becici is another pride of Montenegro. The local resort is famous for its stunning Mediterranean nature, and the 2-kilometer golden pebble beach is famous all over the world.

Another Mediterranean country, Croatia, also has something to boast about. In particular, these are the beaches of Brela. Here the water is so clear that you can see the bottom even at a depth of 50 meters. By far the most popular resort in Croatia, which in 2004 became the sixth in the world and the first in Europe.

Today, the states of the eastern Mediterranean have greatly succeeded in developing tourism infrastructure. The beaches of Egypt, Turkey, Cyprus, and Greece annually attract tens of millions of tourists. But, for example, tourists are in no hurry to go to Lebanon or Syria.
If you want to relax like a king, then the city of Limassol (in Cyprus) is already waiting for you.

If you want to diversify your vacation, then in addition to the already well-known resorts in Greece, Turkey or Italy, you can go to Algeria or Libya. Now countries are actively developing their resort beaches. They certainly have potential.

Countries of the Mediterranean basin, traditions and cultures of different peoples, architecture of different eras, endless sea expanses, picturesque islands and hot sun - all these are sea cruises in the Mediterranean, allowing you to see such different and such distant countries in a short time.

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For lovers of an unconditionally comfortable holiday, cruise ships have been created and special routes and on-board entertainment programs have been developed. Having bought such a cruise, you will not need anything! Your ship will carry you along the waves like a floating luxury hotel.

Everyone at school read ancient Greek legends. And even if he didn’t read avidly, he clearly heard the names of gods and heroes. A trip to Rhodes can completely immerse you in the atmosphere of past millennia and give you a chance for a miracle. Maybe you'll get lucky! Take a risk!

If you are going on a New Year's tour of the Mediterranean, be sure to include Greece in your itinerary. Holidays in this country will give you a feeling of ongoing wonder, which is so important for both adults and children to feel at this time of year.

Another Mediterranean country that is definitely worth visiting on a cruise is Israel. The Promised Land will amaze a traveler of any religion with its inner grandeur, and visiting religious shrines will be of interest not only to believers.