Hiking
How does the cross get to the top?
A summit victory without a summit cross? For many mountaineers in Tyrol, this is unimaginable. But why is there actually a cross on almost every summit in this country?
"For me, they are a sign of solidarity with everyone, regardless of worldview or religion," says Bishop Hermann Glettler at the blessing of the summit cross on the Glotzen, Wattens' local mountain. The cross was erected by a group of scouts in 1958 and was renovated 60 years later. But see for yourself...
The forerunners of the summit cross were weather crosses, whose history in Tyrol can be traced back to the Middle Ages. Such crosses were intended to keep thunderstorms, storms and hail at bay and also marked the boundaries of mountain pastures or communities.
The summit crosses we know today were built in the 19th century, when mountaineering became fashionable. In 1799, the world's first cross was erected on a summit on the Kleinglockner.
Many crosses were erected after first ascents and were fitted with lightning rods and scientific measuring instruments - in keeping with the spirit of the Enlightenment.
After the world wars in the 20th century, the old tradition flourished again. Numerous summit crosses were erected throughout the Alps in gratitude for the healthy return.
Since then, every summit cross has also had a summit book in which mountain enthusiasts can immortalise themselves. The initiative to erect the cross usually comes from organisations such as the Alpine Club, rifle companies or mountain rescue services.
In the meantime, many a cross has become outdated and needs to be replaced. To this end, young men still lug the heavy wooden beams up the mountain. However, a helicopter is sometimes used for elaborately designed summit crosses or mountains that are difficult to access.
A more recent development is the hanging of Buddhist prayer flags on the summits. This custom was brought to Tyrol by mountaineers who had completed tours in the Himalayas.
For many mountaineers, summit crosses still have a spiritual meaning. For others, they are simply a symbol of reaching their goal. As you can see, history does not stand still.
