Urbanization and Climate in Spain

Posted on Mar 17, 2025 in Geography

Urbanization in Spain

The Urbanization Process

Urbanization is the increasing concentration of population and economic activity in cities. It involves the spread of urban characteristics to surrounding areas. The process has several stages:

Pre-Industrial Urbanization (Before 19th Century)

  • Urbanization Rate: Stable, no more than 10% of the total population lived in urban areas.
  • Average City Size: Around 5,000-10,000 people.
  • Factors: Military strategy, political administration, economic activity, religious centers, and cultural hubs.

Industrial Urbanization (19th Century-1975)

  • Urbanization Rate: Significant growth, urban population surpassed rural population.
  • Factors: Administrative divisions (1833 provincial division) and the development of modern industries in cities.

Post-Industrial Urbanization (Post-1975)

  • Urbanization Rate: Slower growth since 1980.
  • Causes: Reduced natural growth, stagnation of rural exodus due to industrial crisis, and economic restructuring.

Urban Problems in Spain

  1. Housing: High prices and speculation make homeownership difficult. Solutions require urban policy and planning.
  2. Supply and Equipment: Increased water and energy consumption necessitate costly investments. Demand for sports facilities, cultural venues, and healthcare also rises.
  3. Traffic: Supply routes and commutes cause congestion and parking difficulties.
  4. Environment: Air and noise pollution from construction and traffic, along with the loss of green spaces.
  5. Crime and Social Exclusion: Marginalized groups concentrate in suburbs and slums.

Climate in Spain

Oceanic Climate (Northern Spain)

  • Rainfall: Abundant, regular, and evenly distributed, promoting soil infiltration.
  • Temperatures: Narrow temperature range on the coast, mild inland.

Mediterranean Climate

Mediterranean Sea Climate (Coastal Areas)

  • Rainfall: Low to moderate, slightly higher on the South Atlantic coast.
  • Temperatures: Moderate temperature range, warm summers, and mild winters.

Continental Mediterranean Climate (Inland Areas)

  • Rainfall: Low to moderate, slightly higher in the western interior.
  • Temperatures: Wide temperature range due to isolation from the sea.

Dry Mediterranean Climate (Southeast and Ebro Valley)

  • Rainfall: Very low, leading to steppe-like conditions.
  • Temperatures: Vary with latitude and distance from the sea. Coastal areas have average temperatures of 17°C and mild winters, while inland areas have lower average temperatures and cold winters.

Mountain Climate (Above 1000m)

  • Rainfall: Abundant.
  • Temperatures: Low annual average and cold winters, with frequent snow.