Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1546600
10 | V O Y A G E R e Mediterranean Sea Explore the history, culture and allure of the Mediterranean. The Romans called it Mare Magnum, 'Great Sea', the Ancient Greeks, simply Hē Thálassa, 'The Sea'. Today, the mere mention of the word 'Mediterranean' transports you to a kaleidoscope of colours, flavours and cultures, diverse yet infused. TEMPERATE SHORES This is the sea of sunshine, golden sands and azure waters. The sea that carries you from the vivid hues of Van Gogh's landscapes and stone-hewed castles to tiny fishing villages, ancient ports and glamorous resorts. As well as being famed for its history, culture and spectacular natural beauty, the Mediterranean is blessed with a mild and temperate climate, making it a magnet for visitors. THE 'SEA BETWEEN THE LANDS' Separating Europe from Africa, the Mediterranean Sea is almost completely enclosed by land and, as such, is the largest inland sea in the world, connected to the Atlantic Ocean by the narrow channel of the Strait of Gibraltar. With more than 45,000 km of coastline, its waters lap the shores of 24 countries and territories, with southern Europe to the north, Africa to south, and the Middle East and Asia to the east. Little wonder, given its geographical position, that this ancient 'sea between the lands' is the cradle of Western civilisation. CULTURAL LEGACY From the prehistoric cave paintings in France to the ruins of ancient Rome, Moorish Spain and classical Greece, the Mediterranean boasts a wealth of ancient monuments. The sea was an important trade route for merchants and travellers, facilitating trade and cultural exchange between peoples of the region. Thanks to a shared climate, geology and access to the sea, the culture and history of many Mediterranean countries are in some ways intertwined. Two of the most notable Mediterranean civilisations in classical antiquity were the Greek city states and Phoenicians, both of whom established settlements along