Why do they call it the Matterhorn?

The name Matterhorn means roughly “the peak in the meadows,” from the German words Matte (“meadow”) and Horn (“peak”); the Italian and French names likely allude to the antlers of a red deer (Italian: cervo; French: cerf).



The name Matterhorn is a German compound word that perfectly describes the mountain's appearance and location. It is derived from "Matte," meaning "meadow" or "pasture," and "Horn," meaning "peak" or "horn-like projection." This refers specifically to the lush, green "Matte" (the meadows) in the valley of Zermatt that sit at the base of the towering, sharp, horn-shaped peak. Historically, the mountain was known by the Romans as Mons Silvius, and in French, it is called Le Cervin, while in Italian, it is Il Cervino. The German name "Matterhorn" became the global standard as Zermatt developed into a world-class climbing and tourism hub in the 19th century. Its iconic four-sided "pyramid" shape was carved by glaciers during the Ice Ages, creating the distinct "horn" silhouette that has made it the most photographed mountain in the world. For travelers in 2026, the name remains a literal map: you start in the green "Matte" of the valley and look up at the soaring, treacherous "Horn" that defines the Swiss-Italian border.

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Symbolic of Switzerland, and situated on the border between the canton of Valais and Italy, it's a destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. Known internationally by its German name the Matterhorn, it owes its fame to its almost perfect pyramid shape.

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A normal 2-day ascent to Matterhorn can cost around €1,300, such as the guided climb via the Hörnli ridge led by IFMGA-certified guide Guy. Longer programs that include acclimatization days can cost between €1,800 and €5,000. Price often includes only the guiding fee and the group equipment.

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The Yeti is the main antagonist of the Disneyland attraction Matterhorn Bobsleds. It is a vicious monster that lives on the Matterhorn, attacking humans that dare to enter onto the mountain. Its vocal sound effects were provided by Frank Welker.

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In 1978, the Matterhorn received a major refurbishment. Most notably, the hollow interior space was broken up into a number of small, icy caves and tunnels with far more convincing theming. A grotto filled with glimmering crystals was added near the top of the lift hill.

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The climbers from Valtournenche withdrew deflated, but three days later Carrel and Jean-Baptiste Bich reached the summit without incident. The Matterhorn was the last great Alpine peak to be climbed and its first ascent marked the end of the golden age of alpinism.

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A successful ascent of the Matterhorn demands a lot from a climber. Fitness and determination are paramount but technical competence and sure-footedness are hugely important. You need to be prepared for 9 to 12 hours of Grade 2 or 3 scrambling terrain.

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Location: Swiss Alps Starting elevation: Matterhorn hut at 3270 meters Summit elevation: 4478 meters Elevation gain: 1208 meters (approx. 4000 feet) Time required: 8 to 10 hours round trip Physical fitness required: Very good to excellent.

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Why is Zermatt so famous? Firstly, Zermatt is home to the Matterhorn. At 14,692ft-high, it's one of the most famous mountains in Switzerland, distinguishable for its pyramid-shaped peak. It's a mecca for mountaineers and climbers.

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Generally, the best time to visit Switzerland is in the spring/early summer and in the early fall, April through June or September and October. This is when you're unlikely to battle thick tourist crowds and enjoy some of the most pleasant weather.

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