Geographische Superlative als Potenzial der Regionalentwicklung? Die Ausnahmestellung der Montagna friulana im Alpenraum
Based on a theoretical framework, this recently published study reveals geographical superlatives in the Friulian Alps. As a contribution to applied regional geography, the valorization of this in regional development is discussed. The lowest lying glacier, the most colorful ethnolinguistic mosaic, the greatest rainfall volume or the highest depopulation numbers – to name just a few superlatives – give the Montagna friulana a special geographical position within the Alps that is not widely known. There is no other region where so many natural and cultural characteristics come together in such a small area. This extraordinary diversity, however, is not expressed in any way in the regional development: Rather, the north of Friuli is one of the structurally weakest areas of the Alpine region. The explanation lies mainly in the fact that the diversity of natural-landscape superlatives is not reflected in a spectacular landscape, therefore it is largely unappealing to tourists.