Billions of years ago, mountains were made when the Earth’s crust—called plates, moved and collided with each other. This caused lands to move upwards and build a giant formation of rocks and soil. Some mountains were also formed when the magma pushes the crust upwards but cools down and hardens before it can erupt. Eventually, as time passed by, wind and rain have pummeled these land formations which sculpted them into the mountains that we now know.
Mountains are also a natural way of dividing countries and regions. They act as natural borders. In the olden days, they were used as protection against invasion. Defenders would set up camps in the mountains and use them as vantage point to see when enemies are approaching. Traps were also left throughout the mountains to stop enemies from crossing onto the other side of the mountains.
Aside from the location of the country, mountains play a big part in influencing weather patterns, stalling storms that roll off the oceans and squeezing water from the clouds. Italy boasts of majestic mountains that adds to the characteristics and charm of the country. It is perfect to visit any time of the year. Here are a few that you can easily visit:
Monte Grappa
Location: Province of Treviso in the Veneto Region
Height: 1,775 meters
The Grappa Massif was formed almost ten million years ago. It was created by the collision between the African and European lithospheric plates. Monte Grappa is abundant in flora and fauna. What makes this mountain really special is the statue of Madonna del Grappa and a World War museum that is perched upon it.
During World War I, Austrians tried many times to conquer the peak to spread on the Venetian plain from November 1917 to October 1918. The Italians made caves in the rock and built fixed emplacements for the artillery so that they could keep control from the Valderoa Mount to Caprile hill.
On the summit of Monte Grappa, there is a military memorial monument, designed by the architect Giovanni Greppi in collaboration with the sculptor Giannino Castiglioni. In the center, lie the remains of 12,615 soldiers. 10,332 of these, the identities are unknown. On the top there is the little sanctuary of the Madonnina del Grappa.
Monte Peralba
Location: Province of Beluno in the Veneto Region
Height: 2,694 meters
It is the second highest mountain of the Carnics, after Coglians. The mountain resembles a huge cubic block of the stone with a large summit plateau, and dominates the view from miles around.
During World War I, the mountain was the site of fierce fighting as part of the Italian Front. It was a strategically important peak due to its height and prominence over the surrounding area. Its summit plateau where fortifications could be built. Up to now, there are remnants from the Great War on the peak, such as caves and a fort.
Pale di San Martino
Location: Province of Trentino in the Veneto Region
Height: 2,982 meters
The Pale di San Martino mountain group belongs to the Paneveggio – Pale di San Martino Nature Park and is the most southern mountain range of the Dolomites.
The Pale di San Martino are mountains of coral origin, which could be found in this area about 260 million years ago. During the summer time, the pinnacles of the Pale di San Martino appear in vibrant and diverse colors, from rose in the morning to tangerine at sunset. In winter time, enjoy the slopes of the ski area of San Martino di Castrozza – Passo Rolle.
Odle
Location: Province of Bolzano in the Alto-Adige Region
Height: 2,875 meters
Between the Val di Funes and the Val Gardena valleys, in the heart of the eponymous nature park, lie the Odle group. The Puez-Odle Natural Park is a veritable geological treasure trove. It has ample amount of different are species of plants and flowers as well as Alpine wildlife.
Tre Cime de LAvaredo
Location:
Height: 2,999 meters
The English translation for this mountain is “Three Peaks of Lavaredo”. The three peaks are namely:
- Cima Piccola or “Little Peak”
- Cima Grande or “Big Peak”
- Cima Ovest or “Western Peak”
They are most likely the most popular mountain groups in the Alps. For hikers looking for a great adventure, this is perfect for you. Be sure to prepare your camera because you’ll want to capture the beautiful landscapes with hundreds of jagged peaks are waiting for you. There are also many rifugios where you can take a break if the hiking becomes too much for you.
Mountains have always given me a sense of satisfaction when I look at them. It has given me hope that no matter how big the difficulties are, I will be able to overcome them. Much like when the sun shines through the mountains. Their marvelous heights never hinder the sun from shedding light throughout the land. They may seem intimidating but reaching the summit will make you feel very liberated.
Do not let your fears stop you from going on your next great adventure. Share with us what your recent adventure is and how it impacted your life. Vivi la vita al Massimo!