Julian Alps

The Julian Alps are located in Slovenia. They are named after Julius Caesar.

We spent the day driving through the Julian Alps.

The largest (actually the only) National Park in Slovenia is Triglav National Park.

The Soca River cuts through the Julian Alps.  It has a beautiful turquoise color.

During WWI the Austro-Hungarian army forced 10,000 Russian prisoners of war to build a road through the Julian Alps.  The road, which we drove on, allowed the Austro-Hungarians to move their forces to the front lines. ("The Soca Front")  Fierce battles took place high in the mountains as the Austro-Hungarians fought the Italians (allies).  During construction of the road there was a massive avalanche that killed over 100 Russian prisoners.  Today a Russian Orthodox chapel and memorial pay tribute to those killed.

Russian Orthodox cross.

There are 50 hairpin turns. Every turn is numbered and shows the elevation.  (see below)

Vrsic Pass (5,285 feet) is the highest point on our trip through the Julian Alps.

Climbing to the top of Mount Triglav (9,396 feet).  It is the highest peak in Slovenia.  

Remnants of WWI

Numbered Turn

Who needs GPS!!

Soca River

Many rickety suspension bridges cross the Soca River.  

Kluze Fort was built by the Austro-Hungarians during WW1 at the foot of a mountain.  It was built to stop invading Italians coming up from Italy through this narrow mountain canyon.  If the fort fell, it would be a straight shot to Vienna.