Odiel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Odiel River |
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View of the Odiel River
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| Country | Spain |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Sierra de Aracena 660 metres (2,170 ft) |
| River mouth | Huelva Estuary 0 metres (0 ft) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | Tinto - Odiel |
The Odiel River (known as Río Odiel in Spanish) is an important river in southern Spain. It flows through the province of Huelva, which is in the Andalusia region. This river is part of the Atlantic basin, meaning its waters eventually reach the Atlantic Ocean.
Contents
About the Odiel River
The Odiel River starts high up in the Sierra de Aracena mountains. Its source is at a place called Marimateos. This spot is about 660 meters (2,165 feet) above sea level.
Where the Odiel River Flows
As the Odiel River flows, it gathers water from many smaller streams. These streams are called tributaries. Some of its main tributaries include the Escalada, Meca, Olivargas, Oraque, Santa Eulalia, and El Villar. The area that collects water for the Odiel River is quite large. It covers about 990 square kilometers (382 square miles).
The River's End
The Odiel River travels until it reaches the Huelva Estuary. This is a wide, open area where the river meets the sea. At a spot called Punta del Sebo, the Odiel River joins another river, the Rio Tinto. Together, they form the Huelva Estuary, which then flows into the Atlantic Ocean.
A Look at History
The mouth of the Odiel River has been an important place for a very long time. Even before the Romans arrived, it was a busy trading spot.
Ancient Times and Trade
Archaeologists have found old items from the Phoenicians and Ancient Greeks here. These findings are part of what is known as the "Huelva Estuary Deposit." They show that people were trading in this area as far back as 1000 BCE. This means the Odiel River played a big role in ancient trade and connections between different cultures.
