Stelvio National Park, National park in northern Italy.
Stelvio National Park is a protected area in northern Italy that covers four provinces and includes mountain peaks, forests, open highlands, and ice masses. The landscape shifts from deep valleys to bare rock walls that rise to over 3,900 meters (12,795 feet) in some places.
The protected area was created in April 1935 to preserve the wildlife and plant life of the central Alps. World War I left behind roads, trenches, and fortifications that are still visible in several locations throughout the park.
The alpine huts and working structures are spread along the valleys, showing how inhabitants adapted to life at high altitudes over many generations. These buildings were designed for cattle farming and seasonal use, relying on local materials like timber and stone.
More than 1,500 kilometers of walking paths cross the area, and visitor centers in Bormio and Prato allo Stelvio offer maps and information. Guided tours run throughout the year and help with orientation across the different altitudes.
The Forni Glacier within the park is the largest valley glacier on Italian soil and extends downslope for several kilometers. The border runs directly next to Swiss Engadine National Park, making the two areas part of a connected ecosystem.
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