Overview: The Mediterranean Basin is located in one of the planet’s temperate zones. The subtropical climate makes it cold and wet in winter, hot and dry in summer, and mild and rainy in autumn and spring. Occupied by human beings for more than 8,000 years, the Mediterranean Basin has experienced dramatic changes to its forest and woodland areas, but nevertheless, these areas are still among the most diverse on the planet. From marshlands to high mountain ranges, from forests of holm and cork oaks to oak and pine forests high up in the mountains, all of them are home to thousands of animal and plant species whose paths cross on their adventures.