11.12.2023

"Mountain Waltz" for International Mountain Day

Today, on December 11, we are marking the Day of all the uplands and mountains of the Earth.
On this day we propose to listen to "Mountain Waltz" written by Tony Murena and André Verchuren in 1953. The waltz was digitised from the gramophone record by the Belgian label FESTIVAL Victory in the 1950s. The record is storeв in the museum Collection section “Music Records”.

International Mountain Day was proclaimed by the resolution of the UN General Assembly and has been celebrated annually since December 11, 2003. The General Assembly resolution invited the world community to "organise events on this day at all levels to promote the importance of sustainable development of mountain regions". The motto of the holiday in 2023 is "Restoring mountain ecosystems". Mountains are majestic, snowy and unconquerable. They are part of our planet, so it is important to protect and preserve them.

Mountain peaks — just two words, but how many images are behind them. Mountains are different for everyone. For some of us, they are snowy peaks glistening in the sun. The others imagine endless emerald peaks, mesmerising with their beauty. For some — sheer cliffs, dangerous and attractive.
According to the UN about 15% of all humanity lives in the mountains. About 50% of all biodiversity is also found there. About half of humanity depends on the various resources that mountains provide us with. Thus, climate change, land degradation and any other negative changes in these areas become very dangerous. The biggest impact on mountains (rocks) is climate change. Many people are already experiencing water and nutrition shortages. Melting snow peaks lead to avalanches, landslides and flooding of valleys.

There are, however, some positive aspects. We should not forget that the mountainous terrain is unique, isolated corners create a unique climate that helps a variety of life forms to develop. In Pakistan, for example, there are unique breeds of cattle that are more resistant to disease than their counterparts. And this difference helps animals better adapt to climate change. About 70% of the mountainous areas are used for grazing.

The great diversity of ecosystems, species and genetic resources make the mountains unique. Not only for travelling and "admiring", but also for living. Mountains are not only natural reserves, but also custodians of history. For example, the remains of ancient marine animals and deposits of rocks characteristic of the seabed have been found on the peak of Mount Everest. It is hard to believe, but once the highest peak in the world was the bottom of the ocean.

One of the reasons why people love mountains is that they are a stark contrast to everyday life. Mountain landscapes are fascinating in their beauty and majesty, as well as their amazing diversity. It is a place where one can get away from routine and immerse himself in the natural world. Another reason why we love mountains is our need for adventure and new thrills. In addition, mountains are often associated with solitude and meditation. Many people find peace and tranquillity in the mountains, allowing them to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and just enjoy the moment.
Mountains are in equal measure a source of inspiration, a place of spiritual and cultural significance, an opportunity for new experiences, and a source of livelihood for people living in mountainous regions.


Ref.:
https://www.kp.ru/family/prazdniki/mezhdunarodnyj-den-gor/https://kakogo-chisla.ru/mezhdunarodnyj-de...
https://www.pozdravik.ru/pro-prazdniki/mezhdunarodnyj-den-gor
http://www.isedc-u.com/press-tsentr/novosti/2233-11-dekabrya-mezhdunarodnyj-den-gor.html