The physical explanation of the term wind is the moving of air masses over a large scale. Classified by their speed and direction winds are at the basis of all types of sailing and have let the western civilization conquer the globe by sea, either peacefully or by force.

Out of all the named winds in a global scale perhaps the most important ones are the Winds of the Mediterranean. Numbering 8 in total and matching 8 directions of the compass these winds have always been key in any type of sailing in southern Europe.

• Tramontane

Signifying the wind that comes from the north. It has evolved from the Latin word over the mountains (the Alps in this case).

• Gregale

Signifying the wind that comes from the northeast. A strong cool wind that affects islands in the west of the Mediterranean.

• Levante

Signifying the wind that comes from the east. The wind that aids the passing of ships trough the Gibraltar straight.

• Sirocco

Signifying the wind that comes from the southeast. An extremely strong wind that comes from the Sahara desert, often carries sand.

• Ostro

Signifying the wind that comes from the south. The name of Austria originates from this wind, it is warm and humid, and often causes precipitations.

• Libeccio

Signifying the wind that comes from the southwest. Originating over Libya, it causes high seas frequently near Corsica.

• Ponente

Signifying the wind that comes from the west. A warm and dry breeze that aids passage of ships trough the Gibraltar into the Mediterranean, also known as Zephyr.

• Mistral

Signifying the wind that comes from the northwest. A strong, cold and dry wind that originates over continental France and dictates the presence of the unique climate in the south of the country.