Garonne river facts for kids
The Garonne is a big river that flows through parts of northern Spain and the southwest of France. It eventually reaches the Atlantic Ocean. This important river is about 575 km (357 mi) long. It helps connect many towns and cities along its path.
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The Garonne River's Journey
The Garonne River starts high up in the Pyrenees mountains. Its source is in the Aran Valley in Catalonia, Spain. Here, tiny streams come together to form the beginning of this powerful river.
From Mountains to Plains
As the Garonne leaves the mountains, it flows through beautiful valleys. It gathers more water from smaller rivers and streams along the way. The river then enters France, where it becomes much wider and calmer.
Passing Through Major Cities
The Garonne flows through several important French cities. One of the biggest is Toulouse, a lively city in southwestern France. The river is a central part of life in Toulouse, with many bridges crossing it. Further downstream, the Garonne reaches Bordeaux. Bordeaux is famous for its wine and its port. The river allows large ships to reach the city, making it an important trading hub.
Reaching the Atlantic Ocean
After flowing for hundreds of kilometers, the Garonne meets another river, the Dordogne River, near Bordeaux. Together, they form a large estuary called the Gironde Estuary. An estuary is where a river meets the sea, and the water is a mix of fresh and salty. The Gironde Estuary is one of the largest in Europe. Finally, the waters of the Garonne, mixed with the Dordogne, empty into the Atlantic Ocean.
Why the Garonne is Important
The Garonne River has been important to people for thousands of years. It provides many benefits to the regions it flows through.
Water for Life
The river is a vital source of fresh water. It provides drinking water for many towns and cities along its banks. Farmers also use the Garonne's water to irrigate their crops, helping food grow.
A Path for Transport
For centuries, the Garonne has been used for transport. Boats and barges carried goods between inland areas and the coast. Even today, parts of the river are navigable, especially closer to the ocean. Large ships can travel as far inland as Bordeaux, bringing goods to and from the city's port.
Home to Wildlife
The Garonne River and its estuary are home to many different kinds of animals. Fish, birds, and other creatures depend on the river's healthy environment. One special fish found here is the European sea sturgeon (Acipenser sturio). This large, ancient fish is quite rare and uses the river to lay its eggs. Protecting the river helps protect these amazing creatures.
Images for kids
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150º Panorama of the Aran Valley from the Beret Plateau, showing the Ruda-Garona and Beret-Garona confluence. In Vielha the Garonne turns westward (out of sight), and after 12 kilometres (7 mi) receives water from the Joèu (Pic Aneto).
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The Main Lake of Saboredo and Pic de Saboredo, the head of the Garonne valley
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The water from Barrancs and Escaleta ravines disappears into the ground at Forau de Aigualluts.
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Banks of the Garonne in Toulouse
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The European sea sturgeon (Acipenser sturio)
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The Garonne at Toulouse
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Seagoing vessels may navigate as far inland as Bordeaux on the Garonne.
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See also
In Spanish: Río Garona para niños
