Saxonian Switzerland
Saxonian Switzerland
(German Sachsische Schweiz; also Elbsandsteingebirge), low, plateau-like mountains in the southeastern German Democratic Republic, in Saxony. Elevations range from 500 m to 700 m. The mountains are composed primarily of Mesozoic sandstones and conglomerates. The Elbe River and its tributaries have carved out deep gorges in the region. The odd erosional forms of relief—towers, needles, and natural arches—are in places reminiscent of Swiss landscapes. Saxonian Switzerland is a popular tourist site.