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 most deep 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.

Average depth 1541 m, maximum - 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 the east coast Adriatic Sea Dalmatian-type shores are typical. 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 a maximum depth of over 2800 m, combining the depressions of the Alboran, Balearic and Ligurian seas, as well as the depression Tyrrhenian Sea- over 3600 m; Central - over 5100 m (Central basin and depressions of the Adriatic and Ionian seas) and Eastern - Levantine, about 4380 m (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 - 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 the basins of the Mediterranean Sea is associated either with the stretching (pulling apart) of the continental crust, or with the processes of compaction of the earth's crust and its subsidence. In the department In areas of the basins, 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. The predominance of fresh water flow over incoming water leads to a decrease in the level, which is the reason for the constant influx of surface water. 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. Local winds are developing: the mistral in the area of ​​the Gulf of Lyon and the bora in the east of the Adriatic Sea. In summer, most of the Mediterranean Sea is covered by the crest of the Azores anticyclone, which determines the predominance of clear weather with little 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).

The flora and fauna of 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 of Mediterranean countries: stands out for the production of citrus fruits (about 1/3 of the world 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 pass along the Northern Sea, 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.

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. Transportation is also great various types raw materials, metal ores and bauxites, agricultural 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. Coastal industrialization, urban growth, development 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 Balearic Islands in Spain, etc.

Mediterranean Sea- Mediterranean, intercontinental sea of ​​the Atlantic Ocean, connected to it in the west by the Strait of Gibraltar.

The seas of the Mediterranean basin wash the shores of the states: Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia, Albania, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Russia, Syria, Lebanon, Libya, Algeria, Morocco.

In the northeast, the Dardanelles Strait connects it with the Sea of ​​Marmara and then the Bosporus Strait - with the Black Sea, in the southeast with the Suez Canal - with the Red Sea.

Area 2500 thousand sq. km.

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

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 cubic km

The flora and fauna of the Mediterranean Sea are 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/cub.m; 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 dolphins, one type of seal (the white-bellied seal); sea ​​turtle. There are 550 species of fish (sharks, mackerel, herring, anchovies, mullet, coryphenidae, 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.

Fishing in the Mediterranean Sea is of secondary importance compared to other Atlantic basins. Industrialization of the coast, urban growth, and development of recreational areas lead to intense pollution of the coastal strip.

The resorts of the Cote d'Azur (Riviera) in France and Italy, the resorts of the Levantine coast and the Balearic Islands in Spain, etc. are widely known.

Photos of the Mediterranean Sea:

Menton, France

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

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

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

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

The first travelers to master movement by sea are the inhabitants of Ancient Egypt. Already in 3000 BC. The Mediterranean basin was used to transport trade goods, people and livestock. In addition to the Egyptians, the Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans used sea communications.

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

Countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea

The waves of the Mediterranean Sea wash the coasts of Europe, northern Africa and a small part of South-West Asia. Among them:


Seas

The Mediterranean Sea is a vast watershed that includes basins of other bodies of water washing the coastlines of the African and Eurasian continents.

The seas of the Mediterranean region are:


Rivers

Many rivers flow into the Mediterranean Sea.

The most voluminous of them:


Islands

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

The most densely populated islands:


Depth of the Mediterranean Sea

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

Geological structure and bottom topography

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

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

Among the largest bays of the Mediterranean are:

  1. Genoese.
  2. Gabes.
  3. Sidra.
  4. Lyonsky.
  5. Taranto.
  6. Walensky.

Hydrological regime

The water regime of the Mediterranean Sea is characterized by strong evaporation, which is not replenished by the amount of precipitation entering the basin.

The reason for this is the geographical location of the reservoir, which is influenced by the surrounding countries with climatic conditions, suggesting the predominance of high air temperatures. The shortage of resources is eliminated by waters coming from the Atlantic Ocean.


Salinity of the Mediterranean Sea

The Mediterranean Sea is considered quite warm. The temperature of sea water is controlled by the parameters of salinity and density, increasing during evaporation. Movement water flows provoke winds. In straits, water flows faster - up to 2-4 km/h, while the flow speed in free areas is about 1 km/h.

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

Vegetable world

The Mediterranean flora is rich and varied. It is based on colonies of brown, green and red algae, the total number of species of which is close to 800. In the layers of the sea accessible to sunlight, phytoplankton lives, the population of which is poorly developed.

About 700 km of the seabed is occupied by oceanic posidonia. This plant is considered one of the largest in length among the known varieties of algae. Posidonia is also unique in its ancient history, since its age exceeds 100 thousand years.

Animal world

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

In addition to the well-known species of fish and mammals, in the waters of the Mediterranean Sea there are about 900 species of mollusks and invertebrate animals.

The reservoir is inhabited by:


Fishes of the Mediterranean Sea

Spring and summer are considered the spawning period for fish. At this time, they stay dispersed, without gathering in large schools. However, already in winter you can find large concentrations of underwater inhabitants of various varieties.

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

Among them:

  • mullet;
  • laurel;
  • sea ​​bream;
  • garfish;
  • zuban;
  • Silago;
  • palamid;
  • marmir;
  • Spitz;
  • grouper;
  • aras;
  • Saragus;
  • bluefish

Dangerous inhabitants of the Mediterranean Sea

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


Tourism in the Mediterranean

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

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

The following types of recreation are available to travelers:

  • diving;
  • surfing;
  • yachting;
  • snorkeling;
  • boat trips on the sea;
  • visiting aquariums, water parks, entertainment centers.

Major European resorts

Almost all European resort capitals on the Mediterranean coast combine the opportunity for a beach holiday and a wide program of entertainment. Each tourist spot distinguished by its characteristics and local charm.

However, the largest holiday regions are:


In Greece, tourists will discover a world that combines regularity and the spirit of antiquity. There are priceless historical monuments, left over from the times Ancient Greece. Athens, Thessaloniki and Thebes will show the beauty and majesty of the buildings of this era to the fullest.

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

Cities worth visiting in Greece:


The state of Cyprus is an island that is replete with a variety of recreation areas. Here travelers will find sandy beaches with a crystal clear coastline, where you can forget about the bustle of big cities. The major resorts in Cyprus are Limassol, Paphos and Ai-Napa.

Italy is a country with a wide choice resort holiday. The north of the state is known for its attractions and a huge excursion program. A warm welcome awaits tourists in the south local residents, the opportunity to relax on the beach and enjoy world-famous national cuisine. An unforgettable vacation will be given and Italian islands Sicily, Capri and Sardinia.

In Italy, cities worth visiting include:


Many travelers consider Spain exotic country because she is different from most European countries.

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

  • Ibiza;
  • Tenerife;
  • Majorca;
  • Minorca.

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

France is called a country for luxury holidays. World-famous stars vacation at luxury resorts, but even a budget tourist can relax here without much financial loss. Hotels are graded by class, as are individual resort areas.

Famous cities The Côte d'Azur of the Mediterranean Sea is considered to be:


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

During your vacation, it is worth remembering that in many Mediterranean resort countries, during lunch, all establishments close for a siesta. This happens from approximately 13:00 to 17:00.

Attractive Asian coastline

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

Israel is famous for its resorts. In Tel Aviv, tourists will plunge into the contrasting atmosphere of the capital, will be able to see the colorful oriental streets and go on excursions to important historical places. All Tel Aviv beach areas are well equipped and the sand is sea ​​coast has a golden hue. Tourists consider this the highlight of the Israeli coast.

Holidays in Israel will be provided by the following resort cities:

  • Haifa;
  • Sironite;
  • Herzliya;
  • Dado;
  • Bat Yam.

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

The Great Pyramids of Giza and a visit to the Sphinx are included in the mandatory excursion program. Exploring the Nile Valley is exciting, where vacationers can enjoy the view of magnificent gardens and ancient rock caves. In Alexandria and Marsa Matruh, in addition to historical attractions, travelers are offered a beach holiday.

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

As excursion program tourists are offered:

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

The best Turkish resorts:

  1. Side.
  2. Alanya.
  3. Kemer.
  4. Belek.
  5. Antalya.

Popular African cities

The waters of the southern Mediterranean Sea wash the North African states. Most Popular tourist destinations Algeria, Tunisia and Morocco are considered. Every year, countries improve their resorts and improve services, which represents competition for the European Mediterranean.

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

Fans of excursions will appreciate visits to the ruins of Byzantine, Phoenician and Roman buildings. For travelers who prefer leisure, Sahara tours by jeep or camel are suitable. Holidays by the sea can be spent at Cape Sidi Fredge and the Turquoise Coast.

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

In Tangier, you can not only relax by the water, but also see the famous oriental bazaars, colonial architecture and picturesque gardens with half-century-old trees. In Al Hoceima and Saidia, tourists will enjoy the uniqueness of Moroccan culture and will be able to spend a relaxed holiday.

The most popular resort in Tunisia is Hammamet. It is known for its landscaped beaches and numerous thalassotherapy salons. Tourists are invited to visit architectural monuments, ancient ruins and well-kept gardens, replete with a variety of flora. Others popular resorts Monastir, Carthage and Djerba are considered.

Mediterranean Cruises

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

Depending on the class of travel, the range of services and type of room may differ:

  1. Standard– low prices, a huge selection of services and entertainment, cabins without windows.
  2. Premium– luxurious interiors, high level of service, gourmet cuisine, rooms with portholes.
  3. Lux– the liners are designed for a small number of passengers, the staff fulfills any customer requirements, cabins with a balcony.

A range of leisure activities can be included in the ticket price or purchased separately. On board, vacationers spend time in the room, attend the proposed cultural events or manage their time as they wish.

The ship moves at sea in the evening or at night, so tourists are offered a large selection of entertainment:

  • cafes, bars, restaurants;
  • sports grounds and swimming pools;
  • dance lessons;
  • spas;
  • cinemas;
  • master classes for every taste;
  • children's playgrounds and animators;
  • libraries, Internet centers and gambling rooms;
  • discos, stand-up shows, theatrical performances.

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

Cruise ships usually depart from European ports:

  • Civitavecchia;
  • Trieste;
  • Savona.

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

Travel by sea is carried out on ships:

  • Royal Princess;
  • Pacific Princess;
  • Queen Vicroria;
  • Costa.

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

To the program of stops cruise ships includes ports of the following cities:

1. Italy:


2. Spain:

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

3. France:

  • Ajaccio;
  • Marseilles;
  • Toulon.

4. Greece:

  • Santorini;
  • Corfu;
  • Katakolon;
  • Piraeus.

5. Croatia:

  • Split;
  • Dubrovnik.

6. Malta - Valletta.

7. Montenegro – Kotor.

8. Portugal - Lisbon.

9. Cyprus – Limassol.

10. Morocco – Casablanca.

11. Monaco - Monte Carlo.

Countries washed by the Mediterranean Sea allow you to learn about their culture and history, in addition to providing a comfortable holiday in the sun. The variety of Mediterranean resorts will help you choose a vacation spot for every taste and income.

Article format: Mila Friedan

Video about the Mediterranean Sea

TOP 10 most dangerous inhabitants of the Mediterranean Sea:

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.

Features of geographical location and climate

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

This has not yet been found anywhere in the world. 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, , Africa.

Total area - 2,500 square kilometers. Maximum depth amounts to 5,121 meters.

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

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

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

Part Mediterranean Sea includes inland seas:

  • Aegean;
  • Alboran;
  • Adriatic;
  • 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 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

  • . There are resorts here that are very popular 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.
  • Spain. Ibiza, Barcelona And Majorca- these are exactly the ones 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.

  • . 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- on local resorts which ones are not found miracles.

Islands

Kara is clickable, click on it to enlarge.

There is also a bunch of large and small Mediterranean islands, interesting for travelers. Among them stand out:

  • Djerba. Located in the north Africa. Translated from ancient Arabic as "wheat town". The island is mentioned in the famous "Odyssey" Homer. Pink flamingos , ancient synagogue, fireballs, local delicious rice– 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! useful salts and No dangerous poisonous plants And animals.

Can be inspected attractions absolutely different countries 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.

Part Mediterranean countries includes European, Asian and African states. Tourists are attracted to them picturesque nature, clean sea waters, a large number of architectural and historical monuments.

On the coast you can find pebble and sand beaches. The wide and long coastline of the Mediterranean Sea contains many places for budget holiday and resorts that amaze with their luxury.

Mediterranean Sea on a world map with countries around it

  1. Bizerta;
  2. Kelibia;
  3. Monastir;
  4. Sfax.

Recently, Tunisia has been serious competition Turkey and Egypt. The gap in the level of service with European and Asian resorts is constantly narrowing. Tourists go to Tunisia not only for beach holiday, but also for treatment. In most hotels in Tunisia you can find traditional medicine centers. They are no less popular than the Mediterranean coast.

Directions by interest

    The most quiet beaches The Mediterranean Sea must be sought on its northeastern coast - in and Croatia. In these places beach tourism is under development, so recreation is available to a large number of tourists.

    Sandy and pebble beaches are surrounded by picturesque mountains covered with dense vegetation.

  • The beautiful beaches of Malta are worth a visit not only for those who love a comfortable holiday on landscaped beaches, but also for those who want to get practice in English . It is one of the official languages ​​of the island state.
  • Behind noise and fun, as well as for a comfortable rest in affordable price It's worth going to Greece, Egypt and Turkey.
  • Exotic holiday can be found on the coast of North Africa. Best resorts in the southeast of the Mediterranean Sea are located in Tunisia and Morocco. In these regions you will feel not only exoticism, but also comfort.
  • Vacationers talking in Russian language, will surround you on the beaches of Israel. Excellent service provided local hotels, will not be able to overshadow a vacation in the Promised Land with its cost. The Red and Marmara Seas compete with the Mediterranean beaches here.