Harz (redirected from The Harz)

Harz (härts), mountain range, northern Germany, extending c.60 mi (100 km) between the Elbe and Leine rivers. The rugged mountains were once densely forested. They culminate in Brocken peak (3,747 ft/1,142 m high). The region has good waterpower potential, and intensive uranium-ore prospecting began there after World War II. The Upper Harz has extensive wastelands and a severe, rainy climate. It is noted for its mineral deposits (especially silver). Gosler, Germany, is the chief town of the region, which also has some summer resorts. The Lower Harz has a mild climate. It is an agricultural region where grains and cattle are raised. Wernigerode, Germany, is the main town.

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Harz 

a massif in the Federal Republic of Germany and the German Democratic Republic, reaching an elevation of 1,142 m (the Brocken). It is a typical horst composed mainly of Paleozoic quartzite, granite, and shale; the periphery is Mesozoic limestone. The summit plain forms a plateau, with occasional isolated peaks, and the slopes are heavily dissected by rivers of the Weser and Elbe river basins. Annual precipitation is about 1,650 mm. The mountains are covered by fir forests, and the foothills are cultivated. The Harz contains deposits of copper, silver, lead, and zinc. It is a tourist area.