Book of the Alps: Facts, figures and stories in over 1000 infographics, maps illustrations

Geography: The Alps are unique. How did they form and evolve? How do glaciers, passes, valleys, lakes, and rivers shape the landscape? Answers to these and many more questions can be found in the geography chapter. Flora and Fauna: The Alpine environment is fascinating. Alpine flowers such as the edelweiss and Alpine animals like the .Alpine ibex have even become iconic symbols of the region. Learn everything about plants, animals, and more in this chapter. Environment: The nature of the Alps is unique, but also vulnerable. Which changes come with the rise of temperatures? What consequences does this have for nature and people? What are the biggest threats and how can we confront them? These are some of the central themes of the chapter Climate and Environment. Alpinism: The age of first ascents in the Alps began at the end of the 18th century. Who were the greatest mountaineers in the Alps and who are they today? How did climbing techniques and equipment evolve over the decades? What achievements of alpinism took place on the Eiger's North Face? The Alpinism chapter offers the answers. Mountain Sports: Many visitors come to the Alps to hike and for winter sports. What are the best hiking or ski touring routes? Where are the finest snow parks? Which other famous and lesser known sports can you try in the Alps? Learn more in the Mountain Sports chapter. Society and Economy: Men and women have changed the Alps in the past and are still changing them today. How did the first Alpine settlements evolve? How did country borders emerge and change over the centuries? Where are the longest Alpine tunnels? Which role do the Alpine clubs play? These and many more topics are covered in this chapter. Arts and Culture: Just as humans have influenced nature, the environment has also shaped the people. The Alps are a special cultural sphere, with its own languages, holidays, dishes and drinks. The Alps are home to mystical creatures and the mountains also play an important role in music, literature, and movies. Learn more in the chapter Arts and Culture.