Via Ferratas in South Tyrol

Via ferratas are climbing routes secured with iron ladders, pegs, clamps, steps, and wire ropes. However, alpine experience, sure-footedness, and a head for heights are also basic requirements on the secured via ferratas in order not to expose oneself to unnecessary danger. It can happen that one has to overcome exposed spots and look down 100 meters. In principle, however, via ferratas are always well secured: the ropes, steps, and ladders help to overcome difficult passages. Occasionally, even suspension bridges are installed as a spectacular attraction. The firmly anchored wire ropes serve for holding on, but also for self-belay with carabiners. A via ferrata set consisting of a climbing harness and ropes or webbing with two carabiners, as well as a helmet and solid mountain boots are essential equipment, then nothing stands in the way of fun at airy heights.

Some of the via ferratas in South Tyrol have existed since the early days of mountaineering. Back then, rock passages were often secured with steel cables. Many via ferratas also date from the time of the First World War, when fierce fighting took place in the Dolomites. The specially created paths, some of which were carved into the rock, were used to supply the front positions with material and provisions under the most difficult conditions. Today, some well-known via ferratas in South Tyrol follow these routes.