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The Matterhorn: a Perfectly Balanced Mountain

Matterhorn in Switzerland

Some rights reserved By mer de glace on flickr

The Matterhorn which is located on the borders of Switzerland and Italy,  is one of the most photographed mountains because of it’s extraordinary peak which is perfectly balanced in proportion. It has a height of 14,692 feet with two peaks that are 330 feet apart.  The Matterhorn stands alone even though it is part of the Central Alps and has no close neighbors. This is one of the reasons that make this mountain one of the most beautifully photographed mountains world wide due to the view accessible from all around.

Elements of the Matterhorn

Despite the size of the Matterhorn’s peak it is not always found covered with snow. In the spring time the Matterhorn has a rocky side that is exposed to the sun leaving the snow like that of a skirt and that lasts year around.  Many admirers have wondered how this mountain was originated because there is no evidence of rubble.  It seems to have been washed away many thousands of years ago by such amazing forces of power that could only have added to a most extraordinary sight.

Climbing the Matterhorn

Many have attempted to climb the Matterhorn and at a great price.  Some have died in the process.  It has been estimated that there have been around 600 deaths on just this mountain alone.  Despite being experienced climbers with the right equipment and ropes that are solidly secured in the rocky walls and the narrow crevices.

Weather related conditions is the biggest danger. What may seem to be a beautiful sunny day can change so quickly without a person even realizing it.  Dark heavy clouds can come without warning and a frightening terrible storm can come raging through.

Climbers may be forced to spend the night in temperatures that can go below 30 degrees.  Another danger that presents itself is that of falling rock.  Many stones can fall because of the climber but more often it is done by natural causes.  Mostly because of ice, snow, hot temperatures, rain storms and even hot sun.  It is ever changing on the mountain and you never know until you are upon it what you might find. Many marvel at how this mountain has withstood all of this and still remains so beautiful it in perfect form.

November 11, 2010 - Posted by | Miscellaneous, Society | , , , , , , ,

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