Carpazi

Carpazi refers to the Carpathian Mountains, a significant mountain range in Europe. This crescent-shaped system stretches for approximately 1,500 kilometers, making it the second-longest mountain range in Europe after the Scandinavian Mountains. The Carpathians traverse a wide arc through several countries, including Romania, Ukraine, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Czech Republic, Austria, and Serbia. Their geological formation is primarily the result of Alpine orogeny, a period of mountain building that occurred during the Mesozoic and Cenozoic eras. The highest peak in the Carpathians is Gerlachovský štít in Slovakia, reaching an elevation of 2,655 meters.

The mountain range is known for its diverse ecosystems, supporting a rich variety of flora and fauna. Extensive forests, particularly beech and coniferous species, cover much of the slopes. The Carpathians are also a crucial habitat for large mammals such as bears, wolves, lynx, and chamois. Numerous rivers originate in the Carpathians, feeding into major European river systems like the Danube and the Dniester. The region has a long history of human settlement, with evidence of ancient cultures and a legacy of traditional ways of life. Today, the Carpathians are a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including hiking, skiing, and mountaineering, and are recognized for their natural beauty and ecological importance.