Mountains of Saint Francis

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The narrative explores the geological history of Earth, highlighting the dramatic events that shaped the planet long before human existence. Walter Alvarez revisits the Italian landscape, revealing the volcanic origins of Rome's Seven Hills and the evolution of the Apennine mountains. The text uncovers the Mediterranean Sea's ancient evaporations and the monumental shifts of continental plates. These geological phenomena, while occurring over vast timescales, are presented with the same intensity as the asteroid impact that led to the dinosaurs' extinction.