Main Rivers of Spain: A Comprehensive Guide

Main Rivers of Spain

1. Cuenca del Guadiana

The Guadiana River, approximately 800km long, has an unclear origin, possibly in the plains of La Mancha (Campo de Montiel) rather than the mountains. It flows into the Atlantic at Ayamonte, bordering Portugal. It is a slow-moving and irregular river, primarily fed by rainfall. Its flow is characterized by sections of both surface and underground movement (Ojos del Guadiana). The river is managed by an extensive system of dams and canals (Badajoz Plan) for agricultural purposes. Its main tributaries include the Gigüela and the Zújar.

2. Guadalquivir River Basin

The Guadalquivir River Basin (the ancient Roman Baetis) is approximately 650km long. It originates in the Sierra de Cazorla and flows into the Gulf of Cádiz, forming the Guadalquivir Marshes at Sanlúcar de Barrameda. Its upper course is characterized by steep slopes and a mixed rain and snow-fed regime (pluvio-nival). The rest of the river is primarily rain-fed, typical of the Mediterranean climate. Its lower course is navigable up to Seville and features marshlands formed by river sediment. Among its tributaries, the Genil stands out, with a nival regime in its headwaters. Other notable tributaries include the Guadalimar and Guadiana Menor.

3. Rivers of the Gulf of Cádiz

These rivers are generally short and rain-fed. Key rivers include the Guadalete in Cádiz and the Tinto and Odiel in Huelva, which form a significant estuary at their confluence.

4. Mediterranean Rivers

4.1 Penibético Rivers

These rivers, flowing from the Penibético System, are short and torrential. They often carve out gorges and valleys, contributing to coastal sedimentation. They experience severe droughts of three to four months due to their subtropical Mediterranean climate. Notable rivers include the Guadalhorce, Guadalfeo, and Almanzora.

4.2 Levantine Rivers

These rivers are short and steep, with dangerously high flows in the autumn. The Segura River, approximately 325km long, flows through one of the driest areas of the country. It originates in the Sierra de Segura, crosses the Huerta de Murcia and Alicante, and flows into the Mediterranean at Guardamar (Alicante). The Tajo-Segura transfer is crucial for irrigating the orchards of Murcia and Alicante. The Júcar River, 500km long, originates in the Serranía de Cuenca and flows into the Mediterranean at Cullera, irrigating a large agricultural area. It occasionally experiences severe flooding. The Turia River is essential for Valencia's water supply, with an extensive network of irrigation canals. The Mijares River waters the province of Castellón.