Southern Europe is a geographical region, which, as a rule, includes countries located on the Mediterranean coast, regardless of their culture and history. Thus, in addition to those powers that are part of the social concept of Europe, the western part of Turkey is often equated with this region, although this issue is still controversial.
Countries in this region
The states that are located in this part of the world are well known to everyone, because now we will briefly list them, and also call them capitals:
- Albania - Tirana.
- Serbia - Belgrade.
- Bosnia and Herzegovina - Sarajevo.
- Cyprus - Nicosia.
- Macedonia - Skopje.
- Slovenia - Ljubljana.
- San Marino - San Marino.
- Croatia - Zagreb.
- Portugal - Lisbon.
- Spain Madrid.
- Montenegro - Podgorica.
- Monaco - Monaco.
- Italy Rome.
- Andorra - Andorra la Vella.
- Greece - Athens.
- Vatican City - Vatican City.
- Malta - Valletta.
In addition to Turkey, there is another “controversial” country, which some geographers include in this area - France. However, the majority does not accept this version, based on the fact that the climate in this country is too cold.
Geographical position
The southern part of Europe is conveniently located on the peninsulas that overlook the waters of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. For example, Spain and Portugal, as well as Andorra, are located on the Iberian Peninsula, Italy, San Marino and the Vatican are on the Apennine, and Greece is on the Balkan. Powers such as Cyprus and Malta, completely occupy individual islands located in the Mediterranean basin. Due to the fact that all these countries are facing the waters of this warm sea, the climate here has developed very mild and warm. It is called - the Mediterranean, and depending on latitude, the name changes from subtropical to tropical. Southern Europe is a very mountainous area. In its western part, Spain separated from France by the Pyrenees, in the central Alps they pass clearly along the Italian border, and in the east, the Southern Carpathians approach the region.
Territory and population
The diversity of nature, relief, cultures and populations, as well as many mysteries and secrets, are stored in the historical region of Southern Europe. Its area is 1033 thousand square meters. km., and the total population is over 120 million people. However, it is impossible to say something in common about the culture of the entire region. Differences can even be seen in the fact that some countries are too urbanized, while others prefer to live in villages. For example, in Spain, the percentage of urbanization is 91%, in Italy - 72%, and in Portugal - only 48%. It is noteworthy that almost all of southern Europe is inhabited by the indigenous inhabitants of this area - Mediterranean Caucasians live here. In many countries, there is a minimal percentage of natural population growth. Therefore, this race is considered one of the aging on earth.
Local climate and tourism
Everyone knows that the southern cities of Europe are a real magnet for any traveler. Some come here to see the sights, but most people come to the Mediterranean resorts to enjoy the local warmth and sun. Most importantly, in the summer months it is not stuffy and sultry, but just very warm. The air temperature rises to 28-30 degrees, and the coolness that comes from the sea fills the air with moisture, which makes it much easier to transfer heat. Such well-known resort cities as Genoa, Malaga, Barcelona, Lisbon, Cadiz, Athens, Naples and many others annually collect millions of tourists from around the world.
Nature and Economics
Southern Europe is a rich region. In its bowels the mass of minerals is concentrated - mercury, copper, aluminum, uranium, gas, sulfur, mica, and much more. Therefore, the mining industry is well developed here . In far-flung regions, there are numerous farms; in this regard, most of the rural population of Europe is involved in animal husbandry. Each of the above countries receives a considerable share of income from tourism. This region is considered one of the most visited in the world, because there are hotels and restaurants for every taste and budget. But still, agriculture is considered the most important, and most importantly, the oldest industry in Southern Europe. Nature has ordered that it is here that olives, grapes, citrus fruits, dates, legumes, and, of course, a wide variety of vegetables and fruits grow best.
Conclusion
The region of Southern Europe is not only an attractive and picturesque corner of the world, but also a historically important territory. A significant part of world culture was born here, which later spread to other areas of the planet. The great heritage of Greece and Rome, the barbarism of Gaul and other regions of the Iberian Peninsula - all this came together and became the main one for our traditions today.