Puy Mary, Extinct volcano in Cantal, France
Puy Mary is an extinct volcano in the Cantal range of the Massif Central, with a summit that reaches 1,783 meters (5,850 feet). Seven glacial valleys radiate from its pyramid-shaped peak, forming a star pattern of deep cuts across the landscape.
Volcanic activity shaped the mountain between 13 and 3 million years ago, leaving deposits that exceed 400 cubic kilometers. Later, glaciers carved deep valleys into the volcanic rocks, giving the summit its present form.
The mountain's name comes from a medieval chapel dedicated to Saint Mary that once stood on the summit. Visitors today walk the same paths once used by pilgrims who climbed to reach this remote place of worship.
Access is through the Pas de Peyrol mountain pass at 1,589 meters (5,213 feet), from where a steep footpath leads to the summit. During summer, shuttle buses run on seven different routes, making it easier to reach without a personal vehicle.
As the first mountain barrier facing weather systems from the Atlantic, the summit captures heavy rainfall and creates conditions for more than 550 plant species. On its slopes, rare alpine plants bloom that draw botanists from across Europe.
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