The Matterhorn: A mountain between myth and commerce

The Matterhorn, a flawless parade mountain, is at the same time a mercilessly exploited advertising icon. It is a mountain that leaves many climbers with mixed feelings. On the one hand, there are the countless images and the enormous business made from this overused symbol of mountaineering. On the other hand, there is the physical presence of the mountain that captivates every mountaineer as soon as he arrives in Zermatt and sees the mountain right in front of him.

The fascination of the Matterhorn

The Matterhorn's appeal is not just due to its impressive physical presence. There is also a dramatic story of his first ascent that fascinates many people. The story tells of two rope teams who attempted to climb the Matterhorn in July 1865. One group, led by Edward Wimper, started from Zermatt, while the other, led by mountain guide Jeans Carell, started from the Italian side. Despite the close race and the tragedy that claimed the lives of four of the first climbers, the Matterhorn remains a symbol of adventure and discovery.

The modern rush to the Matterhorn

Today the Matterhorn is a popular destination for mountaineers from all over the world. Many are drawn to the challenge of climbing this famous peak and the opportunity to become part of the mountain's rich history. But this modern onslaught also has its downsides. The Hörnlihütte, a popular starting point for climbs, is often crowded and the route to the summit can be dangerous, especially for less experienced mountaineers.

The dual nature of the Matterhorn

The Matterhorn is both a symbol of the beauty and majesty of nature and a symbol of the commercial exploitation of the mountains. It represents the tension between man's desire to conquer nature and the need to respect and protect it. Despite the challenges and dangers that the Matterhorn presents, it remains a fascinating destination for mountaineers from all over the world.

Conclusion

The Matterhorn is more than just a mountain. It is a symbol of adventure, discovery and man's eternal engagement with nature. It reminds us that no matter how far we go or what heights we reach, there are still places that can humble us and remind us of our place in the world.