Birnlücke

The location known as Birnlücke, also referred to as Forcella del Picco in Italian, is situated at an elevation of 2665 meters above sea level. It is commonly referred to as the “fork of the summit.”The high mountain pass at the western end of the Hohe Tauern is located between the Venice Group and the Zillertal Alps.Since the Treaty of Saint-Germain came into effect in 1920, the border between Italy and Austria has been established at the crossing.From a regional perspective, some notable destinations include Salzburg and South Tyrol, Krimmler Achental and Ahrntal, as well as the Rieserferner-Ahrn Nature Park and the Hohe Tauern National Park.

Prior to the implementation of the Schengen Agreement in 1998, there were occasional border controls at the Austrian-Italian border and the Krimmler Tauern crossing (at an elevation of 2634 m).

Located just south of the border crossing, at an elevation of 2441 meters above sea level, you will find the Birnlückenhütte. This charming hut was constructed in the year 1900 and was named after the nearby border pass.

The name “Birnlücke,” also known as “Pyrlücke” in 1888, is derived from the former name of the Ahr river, which originates below the pass.The oldest known name of the Ahr, as documented by King Arnolf in 893, is Pirra.The Pirlbach, which flowed through the upper reaches near Prettau, managed to survive until the 18th century.

The name “Forcella del Picco” originated in the 20th century in Italy.

The Birnlücke is located a few kilometers west of the Krimmler Tauern on the Zillertal main ridge. It connects the same two valleys.The use of both tools dates back to the Stone Age.The abundance of ore in the area made the local passes quite significant, a status that likely persisted from the Middle Ages to the early modern era.One possible reason for its loss of importance could be the decline in ore prices following the discovery of America.The loss of importance could also be attributed to the receding tree line.During the 18th century, the southern side of the Birnlücke was reportedly covered in forest up until near the summit of the pass.The protective forest receded to much lower altitudes.

In 1365, Emperor Charles IV made a significant impact on European history by utilizing the Birnlücke as his route to Italy.Due to the impassable condition of other passes, the Birnlücke stands out as an ideal and direct connection.