Sas dla Crusc

Sas dla Crusc is a mountain in South Tyrol that rises to about 2900 meters with steep rock faces towering above the surrounding Dolomite landscape. The peak displays distinctive vertical formations and serves as a scenic viewpoint overlooking the Alpine region.

The western wall saw its first documented ascent in 1953, marking a milestone in climbing history for the region. This achievement demonstrated the growing importance of rock climbing in the Dolomites during the 20th century.

The mountain carries three local names reflecting the region's linguistic heritage: Heiligkreuzkofel in German, Sas dla Crusc in Ladin, and Monte Cavallo in Italian. This naming reflects the blend of cultures that have long shaped this Alpine community.

Several marked hiking paths lead to the summit, with the main route starting from the Santa Croce Sanctuary area. Experienced climbers can use the via ferrata routes that provide secured passages with fixed ropes and metal rungs for safer progression.

The rock layers display clear evidence from the Triassic period, with fossilized remains of marine organisms showing that this area once lay beneath an ancient sea. These geological features make it a natural textbook of Earth's history for visitors to observe.