Climate and topography

Andalusia is a region of outstanding geographical diversity and forms a bridge between two continents, Africa and Europe. At the same time, it is the point where the Atlantic and the Mediterranean meet, making the region a unique interface between different climatic zones and ecosystems.

The topography of Andalusia is characterized by impressive complexity and diversity. Around 50% of the territory is made up of mountainous landscapes characterized by different altitudes and shapes. A third of the region is over 600 meters above sea level, which indicates the pronounced presence of high plateaus and mountain massifs. A total of 46 peaks rise above 1,000 meters.

The heart of the Andalusian mountain landscape is the Betic Cordillera, which is divided into a number of sub-mountains. One of the best known is the Sierra Nevada, which boasts the two highest peaks on the Iberian Peninsula: The Mulhacén at 3,479 meters and the Veleta at 3,398 meters. These mountains dominate the landscape and offer spectacular views and a wealth of flora and fauna.

In addition to the high mountains, Andalusia also has extensive plateaus and fertile valleys, such as the Guadalquivir Valley, which is considered one of the most important agricultural regions in Spain. The Guadalquivir, one of the longest rivers in Spain, crosses the region from east to west and has a significant impact on the landscape. The coastal areas, particularly the Costa de la Luz on the Atlantic and the Costa del Sol on the Mediterranean, are characterized by long sandy beaches and gently rolling hills that contrast with the steep mountains in the hinterland.

This diverse topography not only influences the climate and vegetation, but also the culture and life of the people of Andalusia, who live in a region of exceptional scenic beauty and geographical importance.