Cortina d'Ampezzo
Geography
Cortina d'Ampezzo, often referred to simply as Cortina, is a town and comune in the heart of the southern (Dolomitic) Alps in the Veneto region of Northern Italy. It is situated in the Cadore valley, nestled among the Dolomites in the province of Belluno. The town is located at an elevation of 1,224 meters (4,016 ft) above sea level, making it the highest town in Italy. It is surrounded by towering peaks of the Dolomites, a mountain range that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its outstanding natural beauty.
History
The area of modern Cortina d'Ampezzo has been inhabited since the Neolithic age, and it was later settled by the Romans. The town's name derives from the Celtic word "Curtis", meaning "court", which is related to the concept of a settlement or village. The suffix "Ampezzo" comes from the Latin "ampetitium", meaning "surrounded by mountains". The town has a rich history, with influences from the Venetians, the Habsburgs, and the Italians. During World War I, the front line passed through the town, and it was heavily damaged. After the war, Cortina d'Ampezzo was incorporated into the Kingdom of Italy.
Economy
The economy of Cortina d'Ampezzo is largely based on tourism, both summer and winter. The town is a popular destination for skiing, mountaineering and climbing, and hiking. It has been a location for a number of international sports events, including the 1956 Winter Olympic Games. The town also hosts the annual Cortina d'Ampezzo Film Festival, and it is a popular destination for luxury shopping. Other economic activities include agriculture and forestry.
Culture
Cortina d'Ampezzo has a unique culture that reflects its history and geographic location. The local language is Ladin, a Romance language that is spoken in the Dolomite Mountains. The town is known for its traditional wooden handicrafts, which are a significant aspect of the local culture. The local cuisine is a blend of Italian, Tyrolean, and Ladin influences, with dishes such as "casunziei" (a type of ravioli), "canederli" (bread dumplings), and "speck" (a type of smoked ham).
Tourism
Cortina d'Ampezzo is a renowned tourist destination. It offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, climbing, hiking, and mountain biking. The town has more than 400 kilometers of ski slopes, and it is a part of the Dolomiti Superski area, one of the largest ski areas in the world. Cortina d'Ampezzo is also known for its scenic beauty, with numerous vantage points and panoramic views of the surrounding Dolomites.