Alpi

Alpi, in Italian, refers to the Alps, the major European mountain range that spans western and central Europe. The chain extends roughly 1,200 kilometers from the Mediterranean coastline of France and Monaco in the west to the Danube valley near Vienna in the east, and from Mediterranean foothills to the continental interior.

Geology and topography: The Alps were formed during the Alpine orogeny in the Cenozoic, as the African tectonic plate collided with the European plate. They comprise several distinct subranges, including the Western Alps, Graian, Pennine, Bernese, and Eastern Alps. The highest point is Mont Blanc (Monte Bianco), at 4,807 meters.

Climate and environment: The range features a variety of climates, from Mediterranean-influenced valleys to high-alpine zones. Glaciers have retreated substantially in recent decades due to climate change. The Alps host diverse flora and fauna, such as edelweiss, conifers, ibex, chamois, and marmots, with protected habitats in many national parks and reserves.

Human presence and economy: The Alps are densely settled in their foothills and valleys. They are a major destination for tourism, skiing, hiking, and mountaineering, and serve as important transport corridors with tunnels and rail lines crossing the spine of the range. Agricultural valleys produce dairy products, wine, and seasonal crops in suitable climates.

Cultural and conservation context: The Alps traverse many countries and languages, including Italian, French, German, and Slovene-speaking communities. Several portions have UNESCO designation, such as the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch and the Dolomites. Numerous protected areas, including Gran Paradiso National Park in Italy and Swiss National Park, aim to conserve alpine ecosystems.