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Pindus

Pindus (pĭnˈdəs) [key], Gr. Píndhos, chief mountain range of Greece, extending c.100 mi (160 km) S from the Albanian border through NW Greece. Mt. Smólikas (8,650 ft/2,637 m) is the highest peak. The Pindus are a continuation of the Dinaric Alps but have a lower limestone content than the Dinarics. The steep western slopes of the Pindus intercept moist westerly winds, causing a rain shadow on the gently sloping eastern side. The sparsely populated range is rich in timber and in wildlife.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2012, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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