Southern Europe, also known as Mediterranean Europe, is a region that holds immense historical, cultural, and geopolitical importance within the European continent. It is often characterized by its Mediterranean climate, long coastlines, ancient civilizations, and strong ties to trade and maritime history. Southern Europe is also a hub for tourism, agriculture, religion, and political influence, making it one of the most significant regions in global affairs. When studying List of Countries in Southern Europe is important to note that definitions may vary depending on whether we use the United Nations geoscheme, cultural divisions, or historical groupings. However, the most widely accepted classification includes the countries along the Mediterranean Sea as well as several landlocked nations with strong historical connections to the region.
In this blog post, we will uncover the list of countries in Southern Europe and their capitals, discuss their geographical distribution, and highlight the key features of this important region of Europe.
Countries in Southern Europe and Their Capitals
Here is the complete list of Southern European countries with their capitals according to the United Nations geoscheme:
| Country | Capital |
|---|---|
| Albania | Tirana |
| Andorra | Andorra la Vella |
| Bosnia & Herzegovina | Sarajevo |
| Croatia | Zagreb |
| Greece | Athens |
| Italy | Rome |
| Malta | Valletta |
| Montenegro | Podgorica |
| North Macedonia | Skopje |
| Portugal | Lisbon |
| San Marino | San Marino |
| Serbia | Belgrade |
| Slovenia | Ljubljana |
| Spain | Madrid |
| Vatican City | Vatican City |
SEE ALSO: List of European Countries and their Capitals [Complete List]
Geographical and Cultural Overview of Southern Europe
Southern Europe is often defined by its Mediterranean influence, which has shaped the culture, diet, architecture, and traditions of the people living in this region. Countries like Italy, Greece, Spain, and Portugal have historically played major roles in shaping Western civilization through philosophy, literature, religion, and exploration.
The region also has diverse physical landscapes — from the Alps and the Pyrenees mountains to the Mediterranean coastlines and fertile river valleys. This diversity has made Southern Europe suitable for agriculture, fishing, and tourism.
Largest Countries in Southern Europe by Area
| Country | Capital | Area (km²) |
|---|---|---|
| Spain | Madrid | 505,992 |
| France* | Paris | 551,695* (partly counted in Southern Europe through its Mediterranean coast) |
| Italy | Rome | 301,340 |
| Greece | Athens | 131,957 |
| Portugal | Lisbon | 92,090 |
(France is not officially in the UN geoscheme for Southern Europe but is often included in broader Mediterranean studies because of its southern coastal region.)
Smallest Countries in Southern Europe by Area
| Country | Capital | Area (km²) |
|---|---|---|
| Vatican City | Vatican City | 0.49 |
| San Marino | San Marino | 61 |
| Andorra | Andorra la Vella | 468 |
| Malta | Valletta | 316 |
| Montenegro | Podgorica | 13,812 |
Importance of Southern Europe
- Historical Significance – Ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans originated here.
- Religious Influence – Home to Vatican City, the spiritual center of the Roman Catholic Church.
- Tourism – Countries like Spain, Italy, and Greece are among the top global tourist destinations.
- Agriculture – Famous for Mediterranean crops like olives, grapes, and citrus fruits.
- Geopolitics – Strategic location connecting Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
READ ALSO: Largest Countries in Europe by Area and their Major Cities
Conclusion on the List of Countries in Southern Europe
Southern Europe is a region that has not only shaped European history but also continues to play a vital role in the world today. From the art and architecture of Italy, the ancient philosophy of Greece, the seafaring legacy of Portugal and Spain, to the unique microstates like Vatican City and San Marino, Southern Europe offers a rich blend of culture, history, and modern significance.
By understanding the countries in Southern Europe and their capitals, we gain deeper insight into the political, cultural, and economic structures that define this part of the continent.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How many countries are in Southern Europe?
According to the United Nations geoscheme, there are 15 countries in Southern Europe, which include Albania, Andorra, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Croatia, Greece, Italy, Malta, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Portugal, San Marino, Serbia, Slovenia, Spain, and Vatican City.
2. What is the largest country in Southern Europe by area?
The largest country in Southern Europe is Spain, covering an area of approximately 505,992 square kilometers, making it the biggest country in the region both by size and by influence in terms of population and economy.
3. Which is the smallest country in Southern Europe?
The smallest country is Vatican City, with a total area of just 0.49 square kilometers. It is also the smallest independent state in the world, serving as the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church.
4. Which country in Southern Europe has the largest population?
Among Southern European countries, Italy has the largest population, with over 58 million people. Spain follows closely with nearly 47 million people.
5. Why is Southern Europe important historically and culturally?
Southern Europe is historically important because it was the birthplace of ancient civilizations such as the Greek and Roman empires, and it is home to major religions, trade routes, art, architecture, and exploration history. Its influence extends globally through language, culture, and political legacy.