In one of the strangest episodes of WWI, Britain and France offered a bribe to Italy not to join the Germany/Austria side of the war. The bribe? The southern part of the Austrian province of Tirol, south of the Alps, called the Südtirol. The Austrians living there suddenly found themselves part of Italy and the civil unrest lasted until the 1960s. However the compromises secured with the Italian government allowed this area to retain its heritage and language, as well as greater fiscal autonomy. Culturally, this part of Italy remains Austrian. In fact, Austria did not release its claims over this area until 1992.

After crossing over the summit of the Timmelsjoch Pass, we began the long and spectacular descent. This pano is one of my favorite views from the road. That road is visible in the upper left of the frame.

Note also the beautiful little village on the right with the bridge connecting it to the other side of the valley.
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