Tagus

The Tagus is the Iberian Peninsula's longest river. The river travels westward over narrow basins and deep gorges toward Portugal, beginning in the Sierra de Albarracn in eastern Spain. It stretches about 645 kilometers and drains a total area of 31,500 square miles. The Tagus forms part of the Spanish-Portuguese border. It runs through various cities, including the Portuguese capital of Lisbon. The Tagus River played an important role in the development of Spain and Portugal.

On the banks of the Tagus, cities like Aranjuez, Toledo, and Talavera de la Reina grew up. For the people that live along the river, it is the primary source of water. Its water is also used to create electricity by dozens of hydro-power facilities. There are many plants and animals in the river basin. Some of the species found in the river include trout, royal carp, black bass, and luce. Spanish vines thrive in the Tagus basin. The Tagus basin is also home to coniferous trees utilized in the lumber sector.

Length: 645 miles (shared with Portugal)