The White Mountains

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The White Mountains or Lefka Ori is the biggest mountain range on the island of Crete. They have got their name because they are covered with snow until late in the spring and also during the summer the sun reflected on the limestone summits makes them appear white as well.

The highest summit is Pachnes with 2,453 m (8,048 ft) and there are over 30 summits that are over 2,000 m (6,562 ft) high. They also have about 50 gorges.

The White Mountains has a rich history as a hiding place for rebels during Cretan uprisings against the Venetian and Ottoman rulers, as well as during Nazi Occupation (1941–1945).