Carso

Carso, also known as Karst (Slovene: Kras), is a limestone plateau and surrounding karst landscape in the northeastern Adriatic region. The Italian portion lies mainly in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, within the provinces of Trieste and Gorizia, with adjacent areas extending into western Slovenia’s Kras region.

Geology and landscape: The Carso is characterized by carbonate bedrock subject to dissolution, producing classic karst features such as dolines (sinkholes), caves, underground streams and ponors. The surface is often rugged, with sparse soils and a network of fissures and crevices. The climate is influenced by the Adriatic, contributing to dry conditions in the uplands and a mix of Mediterranean and continental influences.

Hydrology and caves: The karst system of the Carso contains extensive cave networks and subterranean drainage. Water courses commonly disappear into ponors and reappear at springs elsewhere, forming important freshwater resources and a focus for scientific study.

Human geography: The plateau has been inhabited since prehistoric times and lies at a historical border zone between Italian and Slavic communities. Towns and villages are scattered on the slopes and in ravines, and the region is noted for its scenic landscapes, traditional architecture and cultural heritage. Tourism, hiking, speleology and local products contribute to the economy.

Etymology: The name Carso derives from the Italian designation for the Karst region; the term karst used in geology and geography ultimately traces to the same landscape, via the Slovene Kras and the German Karst.