The Mediterranean Sea

The Mediterranean Sea is a famous sea surrounded by three continents. Europe is to the north, Africa to the south, and Asia to the east. The sea is connected to the Atlantic Ocean by a narrow opening called the Strait of Gibraltar. Its warm blue waters have been important to people for thousands of years.

The Center of the World

The name 'Mediterranean' means 'middle of the earth.' Ancient people felt the sea was at the center of the world. The Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians all built great empires around it. They sailed across the sea to trade food, cloth, and ideas. Many famous old cities like Athens and Rome are near its shores.

Life in the Sea

The Mediterranean Sea is home to many kinds of sea animals. Dolphins, sea turtles, and even some whales swim in its waters. Colorful fish and octopuses live near the rocky coasts. The sea is warm, so lots of people love to swim in it. Countries around the sea catch fish there for food.

Fun Facts

• More than 20 countries have land along the Mediterranean Sea.
• The sea is almost closed off from the ocean, so it has very small tides.
• Famous islands like Sicily, Crete, and Cyprus are in the Mediterranean.

Did You Know?

About six million years ago, the Mediterranean Sea almost completely dried up into a giant salty desert before the Atlantic Ocean filled it back up.