Sudetes

The Sudetes are a mountain range in Central Europe, running along the border between Poland and the Czech Republic, with a small extension into Germany. They extend roughly 480 kilometers from the Lusatian Mountains in the north to the Moravian-Silesian border in the southeast, and are commonly divided into Western Sudetes, Central Sudetes, and Eastern Sudetes. The highest point is Sněžka (Śnieżka in Polish), 1,603 meters, located on the Poland–C Czech border in the Krkonoše (Giant Mountains) region.

Geology and geomorphology: The Sudetes formed mainly during the Variscan orogeny with later Alpine influences. The range comprises crystalline rocks such as granites and metamorphic rocks, with some sedimentary belts. The landscape includes ridges, plateaus, and deep valleys carved by glaciation and river erosion.

Ecology and protected areas: The Sudetes host diverse habitats, including deciduous and coniferous forests at different elevations. Protected areas include Krkonoše National Park on the Czech side and Karkonosze National Park on the Polish side. The region supports a variety of wildlife and provides important watershed protection and biodiversity.

History and human geography: The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times and formed part of historic Bohemia and Silesia. In the 20th century, border changes and population shifts affected the Sudetenland; after World War II most ethnic Germans were expelled and borders were redrawn. Today the territory is divided between Poland and the Czech Republic, with tourism, forestry, and cross-border cooperation as key activities.

Economy and tourism: The Sudetes attract hikers and skiers, with access points in towns such as Karpacz, Szklarska Poręba, and Kowary in Poland, and Liberec in the Czech Republic. Protected areas and scenic routes are major attractions, supported by road and rail networks.