The Drei Zinnen are probably the most famous rock formation in the Dolomites and, after the Matterhorn, presumably in the whole world. A wonderful spot on earth where everything a mountaineer's heart desires comes together. The area around the Zinnen has a turbulent history behind it, and above all the First World War front line, which ran right through here, has left unique traces. Countless via ferratas follow old war paths and in places lead right through the mountain in the old war tunnels. There are few places on earth where history comes as alive as here around the Drei Zinnen, and you get a unique impression of the inhuman efforts demanded of the soldiers here at the front. 

Yet it is not only this dark chapter of world history that played out here: from an alpine point of view too, the north faces of the Zinnen have repeatedly been the stage for the greatest achievements of their time, and the limits of what was thought possible have been pushed again and again. Starting with the first ascent of the Große Zinne by Paul Grohmann, Franz Innerkofler and Peter Salcher in 1869 – on their route we still need the same time today as they did on the first ascent. Or the bold ascent of the north face of the Große Zinne by Emilio Comici with his rope partners Giuseppe and Angelo Dimai in 1933 – an impressive experience even with modern climbing equipment, and it is hard to imagine what these three exceptional climbers achieved back then. And these are just two of the incredible feats accomplished on the walls of the Zinnen to this day. 

If you are now thinking, "this is all very interesting, but definitely not for me", you will be amazed as you walk around the Zinnen on perfectly well-trodden hiking trails. And on the numerous via ferratas around the Zinnen, lovers of the iron ways will also get their money's worth. 

And if you think it is simply impossible for an ordinary mortal to climb one of the Drei Zinnen, you should definitely contact a mountain guide and hear what they have to say – who knows, maybe tomorrow you'll already be standing on the summit of the Große Zinne! =)