Ionian Sea, Marginal sea between Italy, Albania, and Greece.
The Ionian Sea is a body of water in the eastern Mediterranean that lies between the Italian peninsula, Albania and Greece, covering roughly 169,000 square kilometers (65,000 square miles). Its deepest point, the Calypso Deep, sits more than 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) below sea level and forms the lowest basin in the entire Mediterranean basin.
Greeks and Romans used the waters as a trade route and military passage in ancient times, with the Battle of Actium in 31 BC sealing the rise of Rome. Over the centuries it remained a key link between East and West, from Byzantine fleets to Venetian merchants.
Coastal towns along the shore carry names rooted in ancient myths and local dialects, while fishermen and sailors still follow traditional routes between harbors. Italian, Albanian and Greek influences blend in the architecture of port towns and in the kitchens of waterfront restaurants.
Ferries link Greek and Italian ports year-round, with crossings taking between eight and sixteen hours depending on the route. Waves and wind can be strong, especially in autumn and winter, which may affect travel planning.
In several northern areas shallow sandbanks rise from the water, becoming visible when the sea is calm. Scientists explore the deep trenches with remotely operated vehicles, as divers cannot reach such depths.
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