Tarragonès

Tarragonès is a comarca (county) in Catalonia, Spain, located in the south of the country along the Mediterranean coast. It is part of the province of Tarragona and its capital is the city of Tarragona. The comarca has a population of approximately 270,000 people and covers an area of about 350 square kilometers. Its geographical location makes it a significant economic and transportation hub.

The landscape of Tarragonès is characterized by a coastal plain that gradually rises towards inland hills. The coastline features several beaches and coves, making it a popular tourist destination. The Ebro Delta, a major natural park and wetland area, is situated to the south of the comarca, though its primary administrative and ecological focus lies in the adjacent Baix Ebre and Montsià comarques. The climate is Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Economically, Tarragonès is diverse. The service sector, particularly tourism, plays a crucial role, with Tarragona city being a major draw due to its Roman ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The industrial sector is also significant, with a large petrochemical complex located in Tarragona. Agriculture, historically important, still contributes, with vineyards and fruit orchards being common in the more rural areas. The port of Tarragona is one of the busiest in Spain.

Historically, the area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with notable evidence of Iberian and Roman presence. The city of Tarraco, founded by the Romans, was a significant administrative center. Throughout the centuries, it experienced periods of Moorish rule, reconquest, and later development as a trading port. The comarca today reflects this rich history through its numerous archaeological sites and architectural heritage.