Dolomieten

The Dolomites, known in Dutch as Dolomieten, are a mountain range in northeastern Italy that forms a principal part of the Southern Limestone Alps. They are celebrated for their pale dolomite rock, distinctive towers and pinnacles, and dramatic high-alpine scenery. The name derives from dolomite rock, first described by the Italian geologist Déodat de Dolomieu in the 18th century.

Geography and peaks: The range lies mainly in the regions of Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, Veneto, and a small portion of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, extending from the Adige valley in the south toward the Piave valley in the north. The highest summit is Marmolada, at 3,343 meters. Notable subranges include the Sella, the Puez-Odle, and the Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

Geology: The landscape is dominated by dolomite, a carbonate rock formed from ancient marine sediments. Uplift during the Alpine orogeny and subsequent erosion produced the rugged relief, with crags, terraces, and deep valleys that are characteristic of the range.

Environment and use: The Dolomites host diverse alpine ecosystems, from forests to high meadows, with wildlife such as ibex and chamois. The light at dawn and dusk is famous for lending the rocks pink and gold hues. The area has a long-standing tradition of mountaineering and winter sport.

Protection and tourism: The Dolomites were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009 for their geological significance and spectacular landscape. The region supports tourism, including hiking, climbing, skiing, and via ferrata routes, and includes numerous protected areas and parks.

Access and towns: Popular bases include Cortina d’Ampezzo, Bolzano, and Ortisei, with infrastructure that includes roads, rail links, and an extensive network of cable cars and lifts to reach high-alpine areas.