Passo di Mortirolo

About

Passo di Mortirolo, also known as Passo della Foppa, is a mountain pass in the Italian Alps, located in Lombardy. It connects Mazzo di Valtellina in the province of Sondrio with Val Camonica in the province of Brescia. The pass is renowned for its challenging cycling route, particularly the ascent from Mazzo di Valtellina, which is 12.4 kilometers long with an average gradient of 10.5% and maximum gradients reaching 18%[1][3]. This climb has been featured in the Giro d'Italia multiple times, earning it a reputation as one of the toughest in professional cycling. The Mortirolo's landscape is characterized by dense alpine woods and narrow, winding roads, contributing to its isolation and difficulty. A memorial to Marco Pantani, a legendary cyclist, is located along the climb, adding to its historical significance in cycling[2][3]. Despite its challenging nature, the Mortirolo offers scenic views of the surrounding valleys, making it a notable destination for both cyclists and nature enthusiasts. The pass's summit is at an elevation of 1,852 meters, providing panoramic views before descending into the adjacent valleys[1][4].