SWS-Galicia/Climate-Topgraphy-Soils Flashcards
1
Q
Where is Galicia? What are its borders?
A
- NW corner of Spain
- Atlantic to north and west
- Portugal to south
- Castilla y León
- Asturius to east
2
Q
What is its capital?
A
Santiago de Compostela
3
Q
What type of climate does Galicia have?
A
- maritime climate
- mild winers with heavy rainfall
4
Q
How does the climate vary throughout Galicia?
A
- maritime influences affect region in different degrees
- SW coast: moderate summers with 25°C average temperatures
- NW coast: slightly cooler temperatures at 23°C
- inland areas: warmer temperatures above 30°C
- southern parts: summer drought, but mild temperatures and moderate rainfall during remainder of year
5
Q
What is Galicia known as topographically?
A
country of a thousand rivers; numerous rías
6
Q
What are the 2 most important rivers?
A
Miño and Sil Rivers
7
Q
Where are the vineyards planted?
A
- steep hillsides; planted en espaldera on terraces
- flatter sites; planted on parrals
8
Q
What are parrals?
A
- type of training system
- horizontal trellises made from granite that sit up to 2m above the ground
9
Q
Why are parrals used?
A
- allows for ventilation of canopy due to high rainfall and humidity from surrounding water
- farmers can grow second crop below vines - allow for higher yields
10
Q
What type of topography does Galicia have?
A
- coast has cliffs and rías
- interior is hilly and mountainous
11
Q
What is the main mountain range in Galicia?
A
- Macizo Galaico/Galician Massif
- forms western part of Cordillera Cantábrica
12
Q
What 3 main mountain ranges make up the Macizo Galaico/Galician Massif?
A
- Serra do Eixe
- Serra da Enciña da Lastra
- Serra do Courel
13
Q
What is the difference between river valleys formed by glaciers and non-glacial river valleys?
A
- river valleys formed by glaciers are U-shaped with steep banks because ice masses carve straight grooves out of the land as they move
- non-glacial river valleys are branched or tree-like in shape with irregular banks of various elevations
14
Q
What is a rías?
A
- non-glacial river valley that has partial flooding due to rising sea levels (or sinking landmasses)
- creates branch-like, indented coastline with series of inlets that remain open to the sea
15
Q
What is the main soil type in Galicia? Why is it beneficial?
A
- granite
- suited for damp maritime climate
- porous and gives excellent drainage
