This sea is called Mediterranean because it is surrounded on all sides by lands or continents: Europe, Asia and Africa. It has a huge basin and is connected to the Atlantic by the relatively small Strait of Gibraltar.
Scientists believe that more than 5 million years ago there was a downpour on Earth for two years in a row, a catastrophic flood occurred, as a result of which this wonderful sea was formed.
Cards
Map Mediterranean Sea indicates that it is divided into several more seas, and also connects with the Black, Red and Marmara seas through straits.
Climate
In winter, storms and prolonged rains are very common in the Mediterranean Sea. Cold winds blow from the north, the temperature of the air and water drops noticeably. In summer there is a warm and rather dry maritime climate.
The high season for the sea begins in May, and the apogee is in the middle of summer, when the sea warms up to + 27C - + 30C, like fresh milk, and tens of millions of tourists come from all over the world.
Countries and islands
Russians fell in love with Turkey for many years for its excellent resorts, quality service, Russian-speaking staff and inexpensive prices. People travel to Italy for pizza and sightseeing Ancient Rome, Naples, Venice.
Perhaps the most amazing and unusual sea on the planet is the Mediterranean. It separates the three different but at the same time serves as a meeting place for the most diverse cultures, nations and religions. Which countries are washed by the waters of the Mediterranean Sea and which of them are most popular among tourists? You will learn about this from our most interesting article.
Mediterranean: history and geography of the region
Which countries is washed by the Mediterranean Sea? What kind famous cities located on its banks? Before answering these questions, you need to study in detail the geography and history of the region.
Mediterranea is the English name for the Mediterranean. This historical region occupies the entire basin of the sea of \u200b\u200bthe same name - the cradle of European and Arab navigation. The oldest civilizations and powers arose on its banks - Phenicia, Ancient Hellas, the Roman Empire. The latter once controlled the entire region. Which countries is washed by the Mediterranean Sea today?
The total area of \u200b\u200bthe region, according to estimates of various scientists, ranges from 4 to 5 million square kilometers. On its territory there are states of two continents and three parts of the world at once.
Which countries is washed by the Mediterranean Sea? Largest cities
Geographically, culturally and mentally, the Mediterranean is divided into three zones (parts): European, Asian and African.
So, which countries does the Mediterranean Sea wash with its waters? These include 21 independent states. These are Spain, France, Italy, Monaco, Malta (an island republic, located directly in the water area), Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, Greece, Cyprus, Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco.
The unrecognized countries of Palestine and Northern Cyprus also have access to the Mediterranean Sea, as well as two overseas territories Great Britain (Gibraltar, Akrotiri and Dhekelia).
What cities are washed by the Mediterranean Sea? There are thousands of settlements on the shores of its water area. Among the largest and most famous cities in the Mediterranean are the following: Barcelona, \u200b\u200bMarseille, Cannes, Genoa, Napoli, Dubrovnik, Athens, Istanbul, Antalya, Alexandria, Tripoli.
Mediterranean structure: islands, archipelagos, seas
Scientists argue that the Mediterranean Sea is nothing more than a relic of an ancient reservoir on a planetary scale - the Tethys Ocean. The Black, Caspian and Aral Seas are also its remains.
The modern Mediterranean Sea is connected to the Atlantic Ocean by a narrow one.It runs between two high rocks, named in ancient times.A curious fact: in the Mediterranean Sea, hydrographers distinguish a whole series of more shallow seas... For example, on the maps of this part of the planet you can find the Adriatic, Aegean, Ionian, Cyprus and others.
What washes the Mediterranean Sea? Several large Apennine, Iberian, deeply protrude into its water area. In the waters of the Mediterranean there are also a large number of islands of various sizes. And almost every one of them is very attractive to tourists. Some of the most famous islands Mediterranean: Crete, Malta, Sicily, Rhodes, Ibiza and Mallorca.
Synthesis of cultures and peoples
"The sea in the middle of the Earth" - so it was called in ancient times. This geographical toponym, slightly transformed, has survived to this day. Indeed, it is here that various peoples, cultures, religions and civilizations have met over the centuries. As a result, a unique ethnocultural situation has formed in the Mediterranean.
Already in the third millennium BC, the so-called Aegean civilization arose here, which consisted of several cultures and was complicated by Sumerian influences. Mixed ethnic groups could be observed within the state of Carthage. Still later, the synthesis of European and Eastern traditions formed a powerful state here - Byzantium.
Thus, cultural syncretism is more than characteristic of the Mediterranean region. It is this fact that makes it overly popular among tourists from all over the world.
Tourism in the Mediterranean
The countries of the Mediterranean are visited annually by tens of thousands of tourists from different corners our planet. The attractiveness of this region is further enhanced by the fact that it is completely located within the mild subtropical climate.
Of course, the most the best way to get to know the Mediterranean is a cruise vacation. It allows you to visit several countries at once and dozens interesting cities... During such a cruise, the tourist can personally see how the monuments are combined with the creations of our time.
In the Mediterranean, tourists most often visit Italy, Spain, Turkey, Greece, Tunisia and Croatia.
Holidays in Turkey
Each of the Mediterranean countries can boast of their first class resorts. And the most famous resort country in this region is, of course, Turkey!
This state today is very successful in developing its tourism infrastructure... Relaxing here is both interesting and very comfortable. Moreover, Turkey is ready to offer vacations for every taste and wallet size.
Excellent hotels, wonderful beaches, delicious cuisine and familiarity with the vibrant local culture - this is what awaits every tourist who decides to visit Turkey. In addition, in a very short time you can see many interesting sights here.
Which cities in Turkey are washed by the Mediterranean Sea? It is the largest metropolis of Istanbul, Izmir, Antalya and Mersin.
Spain and Italy
The state of Spain is located in the western part of the region. Tourists appreciate this Mediterranean country for its picturesque landscapes, beautiful nature, sunny first-class resorts and ancient monuments. No cruise usually goes by Mallorca and Ibiza. But true connoisseurs of architecture should definitely visit the city of Barcelona.
Another European Mediterranean state is Italy. The land of the sun, pizza and spaghetti attracts a huge number of foreign tourists. Lovers of unity with virgin nature go to Sicily, but lovers of cultural and historical monuments - to Rome. The world-renowned center of haute couture - the city of Milan is also located here.
Balkan countries of the Mediterranean
Five have access to the Mediterranean Sea at once, and they all have enormous tourism potential.
The most attractive of the Balkan countries for tourists is Croatia. Even 20 years ago, it fought for its independence, and today it receives thousands of tourists every year. Vacationers are amazed by the unique purity of the sea water in Croatia and the huge number of coastal islands.
Montenegro is also famous for its excellent resorts. In particular, the 3.8 km long Ada Bojana beach boasts the cleanest sand in the entire Adriatic.
Albania is also gradually gaining popularity among tourists. This country benefits from its beautiful landscapes and extraordinary colors. Only in Albania, you can taste delicious local cuisine in an abandoned concrete bunker of the last century!
African Mediterranean countries
Of course, tourists do not bypass and african states of this region. Egypt has long gained fame as a resort and tourist country... But even countries such as Libya and Algeria are actively equipping their resorts and cities for potential recreationalists.
More and more swim cruise liners and to the ports of Morocco. This state, located right at the junction of East and West, Islamic and European cultures, a priori is of interest to tourists.
Tunisia is another Mediterranean state with a large number of historical and architectural monuments, museums with ancient artifacts preserved on its territory. And after a rich cultural program, a tourist here will also be able to fully relax on one of the beautiful beaches. Another feature of Tunisia is its colorful and colorful markets.
Finally...
Now you know how many countries are washed by the Mediterranean Sea. There are 21 of them. The Mediterranean is a unique and very attractive region for tourists. First of all, they strive to get to Turkey, Italy, Spain, Tunisia and Croatia. Indeed, in these countries there are a lot of attractions, and the infrastructure is in perfect order.
Part mediterranean countries includes European, Asian and African states. Tourists are attracted to them by the picturesque nature, clean sea waters, a large number of architectural and historical monuments.
Pebble and sandy beaches can be found along the coast. On a wide and long coastline The Mediterranean Sea has many places for budget vacation and resorts striking in their luxury.
Mediterranean Sea on a world map with countries around it
- Bizerte;
- Kelibia;
- Monastir;
- Sfax.
Recently Tunisia is serious competition Turkey and Egypt. A gap in the level of service with European and asian resorts is constantly decreasing. Tourists come to Tunisia not only for a beach holiday, but also for treatment. Traditional medicine centers can be found in most Tunisian hotels. They are no less popular than the Mediterranean coast.
Interest directions
- The beautiful beaches of Malta are worth visiting not only for those who like a comfortable stay on the refined beaches, but also for those who wish to get practice of English language ... It is one of the official languages \u200b\u200bof the island nation.
- Per noise and fun, as well as for a comfortable stay in affordable price it is worth going to Greece, Egypt and Turkey.
- Exotic vacation can be found on the coast of North Africa. The best resorts in the southeast of the Mediterranean Sea are found in Tunisia and Morocco. In these regions, you will feel not only exotic, but also comfort.
- Vacationers speaking in Russian, will surround you on the beaches of Israel. Great serviceprovided by local hotels will not be able to overshadow the cost of a vacation in the Promised Land. The Red and Marmara seas compete with the Mediterranean beaches.
Most quiet beaches The Mediterranean Sea is to be found on its northeastern coast - in Croatia. In these places beach tourism is under development, so the rest is available for a large number of tourists.
Sandy and pebbly beaches are surrounded by picturesque mountains covered with dense vegetation.
Countries and resorts of the Mediterranean: maps, photos and videos. Holidays in the Mediterranean, hotels, beaches, water temperatures off the coast of resorts.
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The cradle of civilizations, the bone of contention and the most ancient trade routes - all this is the "sea in the middle of the earth", whose waves wash the shores of 22 states, most of which have managed to derive direct tourist benefits from this remarkable neighborhood. It is on the numerous coasts of the Mediterranean Sea that the most famous world resorts are located, which millions of vacationers from all over the world rush to storm every year. The countries of two continents - Africa and Eurasia, as well as numerous islands and archipelagos provide all the conditions for a full-fledged beach holiday: albeit not always warm, but quite clean waters, sandy or pebble coast with a remarkably wide coastline, lush fruitful nature and a lot of historical ruins around. What is especially pleasant - rest in the Mediterranean bushes can be attributed to the budget category: a little more expensive than domestic "south" and at the same time a whole range of entertainment and so far, alas, mostly unattainable at home level of service.
Mediterranean countries
Let's not twist our hearts, saying that the Mediterranean is one of those in all respects successful tourism destinations that can offer the demanding tourist almost everything, at once and at affordable prices. What is missing on the hospitable shores of the "middle sea": and plant rest in slippers and a swimsuit, and interesting excursions sights of almost any period known to historical science, and authentic items of souvenir interest, and rich opportunities for studying foreign languages \u200b\u200b"with immersion", and terribly tasty, and most importantly healthy Mediterranean cuisine, on whose dishes more than one generation of centenarians have been raised.
Another characteristic feature of the Mediterranean, a balm for the heart of an attentive tourist, an exceptional variety of nationalities, languages, cultures.
Everyone will find something to their liking: praying at the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem or burning through the acquired "back-breaking labor" at gold parties in Monaco, inhaling the smell of eternity in the Giza Valley or listening to the chirping of cicadas on emerald Corfu, following the footsteps of the grand duchesses on the streets of Istanbul or gazing at drowning in the red haze of Fez.
Other pleasant bonuses of the direction are a short flight (you can fly to most resorts in no more than 4 hours), a combined visa regime (we are talking about Schengen), which allows you to give up the evening to your neighbors along the coastline without any hassle, in some cases even no visa formalities - like in Tunisia or Turkey. Among other things, the Mediterranean - the most financially accessible of the foreign resort seas - you can find rest here, starting from 200 EUR "from the nose". Finally, the climate here is closest to the "universal" - the swimming season is from May to October, the absence of exhausting heat in summer and mild, moderately sunny winters. Of the minuses - perhaps the extraordinary popularity of Mediterranean beaches, which, in terms of the number of bodies per square meter of area, easily spit the Klondike of the "gold rush" times. 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 your everyday life to oblivion.
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 on 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 impact 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?
A huge number of countries are located on the sea coast. 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, Malta, the state includes the island of Gozo (also called Gozo) and a few 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 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 not only tasty, but also healthy. Beach vacation 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. 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 to spend 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 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.
- 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.
