The Pirin Mountains as a Model Region

Abstract

The northern part of the Pirin Mountains with its distinctive marble peaks and silicate areas constitutes our central area of study. Very differentiated geomorphologic landforms, soil types, micro-habitats and biodiversity are found in the subalpine region and, because there is marginal anthropogenic interference, we can study natural landscape and climate dynamics. To establish a basis, all geophysical features on specific sites and along transects have been documented, and the soil conditions have been mapped. The region’s service capacity and conservation strategies are outlined. Hence, this chapter reviews important aspects of the Pirin’s remarkable landscape, its natural development (climate, vegetation, soil) and anthropogenic interference (history, current pressure).