The Alps, a mountain range that spans Europe and Asia, is one of the most recognizable physical features on Earth. The tallest peak in the range is Mont Blanc (4,810 meters), located on the border between France and Italy. The second highest is Monte Rosa (4,634 meters) situated on the Swiss-Italian border. Other notable peaks include Matterhorn (4,478 meters) and Dufourspitze (4,634 meters).
The Alps are home to numerous glaciers, including Aletsch Glacier in Switzerland which has an area of nearly 90 square kilometers. These glaciers are important sources for both drinking water and hydroelectric power for millions of people living nearby. In addition to providing water resources, they also provide habitats for a variety of plants and animals native to this region such as ibexes and marmots.
The formation of the Alps was due largely to tectonic activity during the Mesozoic Era some 65 million years ago when Africa collided with Eurasia creating tremendous pressure that caused vast upliftment throughout much of Europe’s land mass resulting in what we now recognize as today’s Alpine range spanning 8 countries: Austria; France; Germany; Italy; Liechtenstein; Monaco; Slovenia ;and Switzerland..
Additionally there are a number of ski resorts scattered throughout these mountains making them a popular destination among winter sports enthusiasts from all across Europe who flock here annually each year to enjoy skiing or snowboarding down its many slopes enjoying some breathtaking views along their way!
Finally it should be noted that aside from being just another beautiful landscape in nature’s repository – The Alps have played an instrumental role in shaping European history with countless battles fought over control by various empires through out centuries past – thus making it one truly unique place worthy exploring if given opportunity!