The Mediterranean Sea

0. In its 2.5 million squared kilometre span, the Mediterranean Sea touches 3 different continents. In fact, 21 countries share a border with this large body of water. Despite being subdivided into fourteen smaller seas, including the Adriatic, Aegean and Ionian, the Mediterranean is characterized by a typical climate that boasts mild winters and hot summers. The former tends to be accompanied with precipitation, while the latter could be dry or humid depending on the specific location.

1. Due to its connections to a plethora of different lands, the Mediterranean was a central route for trade. Not only were goods such as food products, gold and textiles transferred between and beyond ports, but cultural exchanges also occurred. To name a few, Greeks, Romans, Persians, and Ottomans all had their turn in controlling the area and this influence was expanded when trade extended to Asian countries along the Silk Road and Spice Routes. Each of these ethnic groups played an essential role in the development of Western History and the shaping of the region’s nations as we know them in modern day.

2. As a result of these mixing cultures, a common language was needed to conduct business between the merchants and travellers in the region. For this reason, Sabir, became the Lingua Franca of the region until the 19th century. That is to say, this pidgin language was a mix of the Latin-based tongues with fusions of North-African, Turkish and Greek influences, simplified in a way that people from several linguistic backgrounds were able to communicate. In spite of its abridged linguistic construction, Sabir lost its traction as respective countries began gaining more power. Today, about thirteen official languages are spoken in the area with relatively limited similarities.

3. Nevertheless, a cultural likeness in cuisine does permeate the region. While you may have heard the term, “Mediterranean Diet”, there is not a clear-cut definition of what this precisely means. Generally speaking, those who inhabit the area tend to promote a plant-based lifestyle. Instead of consuming a high proportion of red meat, they tend to incorporate a few doses of leaner options such as fish, chicken, or eggs. Unprocessed foods like fruits, veggies and legumes, as well as whole grains accompany these sources of protein. Of course, no Mediterranean meal is complete without a healthy fat, like their famous olive oil.

4. It’s not surprise that the World Health Organization recommends this lifestyle to help prevent chronic illnesses and increase lifespans. The emphasis placed on seasonal foods removes the need for processed chow. What’s more is its lack of restrictions. Bread and fats, albeit not trans or saturated ones, are welcomed in moderation. Additionally, unlike other diets, this one does not promote harmful behaviours such as calorie counting.

5. Beyond the exportation of the Mediterranean way of life, tourists flock to experience it first-hand. Having over 45,000 kilometres of breathtaking coast, millions of people visit each year. The region is home to hundreds of islands, ranging in size from the large and well-known Italian provinces of Sicily and Sardinia, to the miniscule isles of Greece. While high summer temperatures entice crowds of sunbathers, the vast array of cultural activities attract those looking to experience some of the region’s history. Likewise, tourism is vital for locals, as they heavily rely on this industry. Without it, their livelihood would be severely impacted.

6. Notwithstanding the allure of this vacation destination, human intervention is certainly taking a toll on the landscape. The overdevelopment of the Mediterranean seaside for tourism is causing the decline of biodiversity and natural coastlines. Moreover, increased pollution from cruise ships and land-based activities is quickening this process. Another major concern is overfishing. It is estimated that the majority of natural sea species in the area are heavily threatened.

7. Additionally, a humanitarian issue has become prominent in news articles regarding the Mediterranean at the present time. Dubbed a graveyard by Malta’s Prime Minister, the sea has become notorious for the deaths of many individuals. Many migrants from Africa and the Middle East trying to reach Europe have been the victims of the sea’s rough waters, enduring awful conditions and capsized ships. Whether this situation is a result of reforms to European immigration policies or not, it has gained momentum and the call for change and responsibility is widely debated among Mediterranean nations.