Guadiana

Guadiana
Name	Guadiana
Length	818 km
Basin size	33,500 km²

Guadiana is a major river in the Iberian Peninsula, flowing through Spain and Portugal. It has a total length of approximately 818 kilometers and a basin size of 33,500 square kilometers. The river forms part of the international border between Spain and Portugal, and its watershed is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The Guadiana is an important source of freshwater and supports various economic activities, including agriculture and fishing.

Geography

The Guadiana River originates in the Sierra Morena mountains of Spain, specifically in the province of Jaén. Its source is located at an elevation of about 1,200 meters above sea level. The river flows southwest through the provinces of Badajoz and Huelva in Spain, and the districts of Portalegre, Évora, and Alentejo in Portugal. The Guadiana empties into the Gulf of Cádiz, specifically in the Atlantic Ocean, forming an estuary known as the Ria Formosa.

Course

The Guadiana River has a total length of 818 kilometers, of which about 415 kilometers are in Spain and 403 kilometers are in Portugal. The river's course can be divided into three main sections: the upper course, the middle course, and the lower course. The upper course flows through a mountainous region, where the river is narrow and fast-flowing. The middle course is characterized by a wider valley, where the river slows down and forms several meanders. The lower course is a coastal plain, where the river empties into the Gulf of Cádiz.

Basin

The Guadiana River basin covers an area of 33,500 square kilometers, of which about 19,200 square kilometers are in Spain and 14,300 square kilometers are in Portugal. The basin is home to several major cities, including Badajoz, Évora, and Portalegre. The basin's geology is characterized by a mix of granite, schist, and limestone rocks, which support a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Ecology

The Guadiana River and its basin support a rich and diverse ecosystem, with a wide range of plant and animal species. The river is home to several endangered species, including the European otter, Iberian lynx, and Spanish imperial eagle. The river's watershed is also an important habitat for migratory birds, such as the Greater flamingo and White stork. The Guadiana's estuary, the Ria Formosa, is a protected area and a Ramsar site, recognized for its importance as a wetland and a habitat for several bird species.

History

The Guadiana River has played an important role in the history of the Iberian Peninsula, with evidence of human presence dating back to the Paleolithic era. The river has been an important transportation route and a source of freshwater and food for various civilizations, including the Romans, Moors, and Portuguese. The Guadiana has also been the site of several battles and conflicts, including the Battle of Ourique in 1139.

Economy

The Guadiana River and its basin support various economic activities, including agriculture, fishing, and tourism. The river's watershed is home to several major agricultural areas, including the Alentejo region in Portugal and the province of Badajoz in Spain. The river is also an important source of freshwater for irrigation and drinking water supply. The Guadiana's estuary and coastal areas are popular tourist destinations, with several natural parks and protected areas, including the Ria Formosa Natural Park.

Category:Rivers in Spain Category:Rivers in Portugal Category:International rivers of Europe