Which mountain range stretches almost 1,400 km (850 mi) along the length of Italy?

Often called the "backbone of Italy," this long mountain chain forms the geological spine of the Italian peninsula. The range begins in the northwest, where it connects with the Alps near the Ligurian coast, and arcs south for almost 1,400 kilometers. It runs the entire length of the mainland, shaping the country's geography and climate before ending in Calabria, the "toe" of Italy's boot.

Geologically, this range is much younger than the more famous Alps to the north. It was formed by the ongoing collision of the African and Eurasian tectonic plates, a process that continues to cause seismic activity in the region. Historically, its rugged terrain created a formidable barrier, separating the eastern and western sides of the peninsula and influencing the development of distinct regional cultures and dialects that persist to this day.

Beyond its historical and cultural impact, the range is also the source of most of Italy's major rivers, including the Arno, which flows through Florence, and the Tiber, which runs through the heart of Rome. Today, vast sections of the mountains are protected within national parks, preserving their rich biodiversity and offering dramatic landscapes, with the highest peak being Corno Grande in the central Gran Sasso massif.