JOTUNHEIM MOUNTAINS

mountain range, Oppland fylke (county), south-central Norway. Extending for 80 miles (130 km) between Gudbrands valley (east) and the Jostedals Glacier (west), the chain is surrounded by many lakes. The highest range in Scandinavia, its tallest peaks are Glitter Mountain (8,045 feet ) and Galdh Mountain (8,100 feet ). The mountains rise dramatically from a comparatively level plain about 3,000 feet (900 m) above sea level. They are geologically related to ancient Caledonian volcanic rocks of Scotland. The Jotunheim Mountains are mentioned in early Norse sagas, but they were not fully explored until the early 19th century. In 1822 they were named Jotunfjell (Giant's Mountains), but since the turn of the century they have been known as the Jotunheimen (Giant's Home). They have been a popular tourist attraction for more than 100 years, offering excellent hiking and mountain-climbing opportunities. The area was the setting of Henrik Ibsen's prose drama Peer Gynt. The lower slopes of the mountains and the level plateau are used as summer pastures for cattle and goats.