92 GOTTHARD PASS...

Me and Carl are desperate to blast our little Abarth's around The Gotthard Pass, that is probably the part of the trip I'm looking forward too most. I'm going full end of The Italian Job in my head - minus the arse of a coach hanging over a cliff, obviously. But what do you know about one of the most famous roads in the world?

The Gotthard Pass is a historic and scenic mountain pass in the Swiss Alps, connecting the northern part of Switzerland with the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino to the south.  It has long been one of the main north-south routes through the Alps, traversing rugged terrain with a summit elevation of around 2,106 meters (6,909 feet).  This makes it one of the highest passes in the region, offering dramatic views of mountains, valleys, and alpine landscapes.

Historical Significance

The Gotthard Pass has been a crucial transit route for centuries, dating back to medieval times.  Its importance grew in the 13th century when it became a key link between northern and southern Europe.  Travellers, traders, and armies alike used the pass, and it played a significant role in Swiss history and the broader history of European trade and transportation.

One particularly famous historical feature is the Devil's Bridge (Teufelsbrücke), which is part of the Gotthard route in the Schöllenen Gorge.  According to legend, this bridge was built with the devil's help, as the steep and narrow terrain made it nearly impossible to construct without supernatural assistance.  The bridge has been reconstructed several times over the centuries, and remnants of earlier bridges are still visible today.

Modern Engineering Feats

The Gotthard region is famous for its engineering marvels, particularly the Gotthard Tunnel network.  The Gotthard Rail Tunnel, completed in 1882, was one of the world's longest railway tunnels, enabling much faster mountain travel.  More recently, the Gotthard Base Tunnel, completed in 2016, set a new record as the world's longest and deepest railway tunnel, stretching 57 kilometres (35 miles) through the Alps.  This base tunnel significantly reduced travel time between Zurich and Milan, greatly benefiting passenger and freight transportation.

Tourist Attraction

Today, the Gotthard Pass is popular with tourists, motorcyclists, and cyclists, especially in summer when the road is open and snow-free.  The road provides access to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and charming mountain villages, making it a favourite among travellers seeking outdoor recreation and scenic views.  In winter, parts of the route are often closed due to heavy snowfall, but the area still draws visitors for winter sports and scenic train rides.

Cultural Legacy

The Gotthard Pass is also culturally significant, referencing Swiss folklore, literature, and music.  The pass embodies a spirit of resilience, unity, and ingenuity.  Switzerland's symbolic importance is reflected in the Gotthard Massif.  This mountain range represents the geographic heart of the country and is central to the Swiss identity.

In summary, the Gotthard Pass is not only an essential historical route through the Swiss Alps but also a modern transportation corridor, tourist destination, and cultural icon, showcasing Switzerland's natural beauty and engineering prowess.