- Location: the border of Switzerland and Italy (not far from Zermatt)
- Mountain Range: The Pennine Alps
- Height above sea level: 4478 m
- First ascent: July 14, 1865
Matterhorn - the world-famous scenic mountain in the Central Alps. It does not have "neighbors", so a solitary high hill looks very impressive. The pyramidal shape of the mountain adds to her refinement. Matterhorn - the most recalcitrant and dangerous object for mountaineering, but, nevertheless, some lucky ones managed to ascend to the top. Today, the Matterhorn mountain is one of the top attractions of the Swiss Alps . It has many interesting facts , which we will tell you about in our article.
Where is Mattehorn?
Mount Matterhorn is located on the border of Switzerland and Italy. It belongs to the mountain range of the Pennine Alps, so there are many ski resorts around it. Of these, the closest to the foot are Zermatt (Switzerland) and Breu-Cervinia (Italy). They are the best ski resorts in their countries. Although these resort towns belong to different countries, they are connected by the ancient Teodul Pass on the east side of the mountain. Therefore, to move and one resort in another is not difficult. Many are afraid to pass the pass, because it is at an altitude of 3295 meters, and the road itself is covered with solid ice, it is splendidly covered with snow.
There is one more mountain pass that connects the tourist centers, it is called Furggg. But, despite the fact that it is a little lower, after all its way is considered dangerous and only daring climbers can solve it.
Height and relief
Mount Matterhorn has two peaks that are located at a distance of about 100 m. The highest point of Matterhoron is 4478 meters and is called the "Swiss peak". The Italian peak is on the west side, its height is 4477 m. They got their name due to the nationality of the first conquerors, but not because of territorial division, because both are located on the border between the two countries.
The Matterhorn has four steep slopes that created a visually pyramidal shape. Each slope points to a certain part of the world (north, south, etc.) and got its name. They are quite steep, so snow rarely lingers on the mountain. Mostly he descends to the foot of the avalanche. This phenomenon is very dangerous, so many people are afraid to be near Matterhorn, when the mountain is dressed in a white robe. Most avalanches come off in spring and summer, and in winter the superb white Matterhorn Mountain resembles a glacial obelisk whose beauty only arouses admiration.
Great ascents
Mount Matterhorn is really very dangerous for climbers. In addition to the steep mountain slopes of bold conquerors, many difficulties are expected due to weather conditions. In a moment, a serious snow storm can be played on the mountain at any time of the year and such hazards should be prepared for a long time.
Attempts to ascend the summit of the Matterhorn were only about ten. Brave climbers gathered in large groups and equipped with all the essentials, but managed to ascend to the peak of the Matterhorn only to some. In July 1865, an Italian group of alpinists, consisting of seven people, advanced to conquer the summit. It consisted of: Edward Wimper, Lord Francis Douglas, Charles Hudson, Charles Hado and three unknown guides. All of them earlier attempted to conquer the summits of the Matterhorn, but did not achieve the desired results. Although the heights that they managed to climb were the same for the first time and reached (3350 m, 4003 m and 4120 m). July 14, 1865 at 13.45 they were able to reach the summit of the Matterhorn and became its first conquerors.
Such a victory soon turned into a tragedy. When the climbers came down from the heights, a snowstorm began. All members of the group were in a bundle and the last one in it slipped, knocking down the next three. Those who could stand on their feet grabbed the mouth of the mountain, but the ligament cord was torn and four climbers fell into the abyss. Two explorers and Edward Wimper returned from the expedition.
On the slopes of Matterhorn, a total of 600 people died. These horrendous facts have stopped many bold climbers. Matterhorn became the last conquered mountain of the Alps in Switzerland.
How to get to the mountain?
Climbing the mountain is dangerous, and not everyone, even an experienced climber, will decide on this, but look at one of the main attractions of Switzerland is definitely worth it. Do it best from the nearest town to the mountain Zermatt. You can reach it by public transport. There are absolutely no cars, but there is still an option to get there on the famous "Glacier Express" train, which is so loved by children. Stunning scenery with a view of the mountain you are provided!
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