For many, the Matterhorn is the most beautiful mountain in the Alps. The Matterhorn's beautifully shaped rock pyramid is probably the most famous mountain in Europe. But this fascination also has a dark side: no other mountain in the world kills as many people each year. Since the first ascent in 1865, not a year has gone by without a fatality. 600 people have already died on the mountain. At 4478 m above sea level, it is one of the highest mountains in the Alps, but its fame is due to its beautiful shape and the myths that surround the mountain. The shape is thanks to a giant who was drawn to Switzerland out of curiosity...
The giant Gargantua
Many thousands of years ago, the giant Gargantua lived in the Alps. His figure was enormous, for when he stood upright he almost reached the clouds. His head was as big as a massive boulder and his hands were powerful paws that could easily break a tree trunk. The giant's ears and nostrils were dark caves large enough to accommodate a child. Every time Gargantua moved, the earth shook beneath his stamping feet, leaving deep tracks. The giant also left a clear imprint wherever he lay down to rest.
Although Gargantua was not very agile due to his size and often left a trail of destruction behind him, he liked people and was curious. At that time, the Matterhorn was a massive mountain wall that shielded the sunny valley of Valtournenche from the cold north wind. Gargantua wanted to know what was hidden behind this massive mountain range and climbed over the rock face with a large step. So he set foot in Switzerland and reached Zermatt. But when he tried to drag his other foot, he accidentally caused the mountain range around him to collapse. Only the rocks that were between the giant's legs remained standing and formed the Matterhorn we see today.
Access
The most beautiful view of the Matterhorn is from the Gornergrat. Even those less experienced can enjoy the wonderful view by train.
