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Mecsek

The Mecsek is a mountain range in southern Hungary, located in Baranya County and forming a natural extension of the Transdanubian Mountains to the west of Pécs. It runs roughly along an east–west axis, creating a distinct ecological and climatic transition between the Danube Basin lowlands and the surrounding hills. The highest point is Zengő, at 682 meters above sea level.

Geology and landscape features are dominated by carbonates and sedimentary rocks, including limestone and dolomite, with

Ecology and protection: The Mecsek includes several protected areas, among them the Mecsek Landscape Protection Area,

Human use and culture: Towns and settlements along the foothills include Pécs, Pécsvárad, Abaliget and Komló.

extensive
karst
systems
and
numerous
caves.
The
range
is
heavily
forested,
with
mixed
beech
and
oak
stands
at
lower
elevations
and
conifer
stands
higher
up.
Springs
and
water
resources
are
an
important
aspect
of
the
region,
and
the
area
has
long
been
utilized
for
forestry
and
quarrying.
and
is
part
of
Hungary’s
network
of
nature
reserves.
It
supports
biodiversity
representative
of
the
Transdanubian
montane
forests
and
provides
habitat
for
a
range
of
European
wildlife.
The
region
also
serves
as
a
crucial
recreational
and
ecological
resource
for
southern
Hungary,
offering
opportunities
for
hiking,
birdwatching,
and
nature
study.
The
area
has
a
historical
legacy
of
mining
and
forestry,
with
remnants
visible
in
the
landscape.
Abaliget
Cave
is
a
notable
show
cave
located
within
the
Mecsek
and
a
popular
tourist
attraction.
The
Mecsek
remains
a
favored
destination
for
outdoor
activities,
with
well-marked
trails
and
viewpoints
overlooking
the
city
of
Pécs
and
the
surrounding
lowlands.