Adriatic Sea

Bucht von Kotor

Gjipe beach, Albania

Adriatic Sea Bathymetry

Adriatic Sea Currents 2

Vrulja kod Omiša

Adriatic Sea is a body of water separating the Italian Peninsula from the Balkan Peninsula. The Adriatic is the northernmost arm of the Mediterranean Sea, extending from the Strait of Otranto where it connects to the Ionian Sea to the northwest and ending at the Po Valley and the shores of Venice. It is bounded by Italy to the west and north, and by Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Albania to the east. The Adriatic Sea is a significant part of the Mediterranean trade and travel routes.

Geography

The Adriatic Sea is roughly 800 km (500 mi) long, with an average width of 160 km (100 mi), but it narrows to just 58 km (36 mi) in width between the Gargano Peninsula in Italy and the Kvarner Gulf in Croatia. Its greatest depth is approximately 1,233 meters (4,045 ft) in the southern part, near its boundary with the Ionian Sea. The coast is characterized by a large number of bays, inlets, and islands. The largest island in the Adriatic is Krk, belonging to Croatia. The coastline is especially indented in Croatia, where it forms part of the Dalmatian coast.

Climate

The climate of the Adriatic Sea region varies from the north to the south. The northern parts, including the Venetian lagoon, experience a humid subtropical climate, while the southern parts have a Mediterranean climate. The sea itself helps to moderate the climate of the coastal areas, making the winters milder and the summers cooler than the interior.

Biodiversity

The Adriatic Sea is home to a diverse range of marine life, including various species of fish, mollusks, and crustaceans. The sea's biodiversity is threatened by overfishing, pollution, and the impacts of climate change. Efforts are being made to protect the Adriatic through the establishment of marine protected areas and the implementation of sustainable fishing practices.

Economy

The economy of the Adriatic region is heavily reliant on tourism, maritime trade, and fishing. The picturesque coastlines of Italy, Croatia, and Montenegro, along with historical cities such as Venice, Dubrovnik, and Split, attract millions of tourists each year. The Adriatic also has significant reserves of oil and gas, which are being explored and exploited.

History

The Adriatic Sea has been a critical region for trade and military endeavors throughout history, serving as a maritime pathway for ancient civilizations such as the Romans and the Byzantines. In the Middle Ages, the Adriatic was dominated by the Venetian Republic, which controlled much of the trade routes between Europe and the East. In more recent history, the Adriatic coast was a battleground during the World Wars and the breakup of Yugoslavia.

Environmental Concerns

Pollution is a significant issue for the Adriatic Sea, with industrial and agricultural runoff, along with sewage discharge, contributing to the degradation of marine habitats. Plastic pollution is also a growing concern. Efforts are being made at both national and international levels to address these environmental challenges and preserve the Adriatic for future generations.