The Infinite Knot, new Matterhorn climb by François Cazzanelli, Michele Cazzanelli, Stefano Stradelli

On the legendary south face of the Matterhorn, more precisely on the shield of Pic Tyndall (4,241m), the Italian mountain guides François Cazzanelli, Michele Cazzanelli, and Stefano Stradelli have established Il Nodo Infinito (The Infinite Knot). The new climb follows a completely independent line, is 480 meters high, and overcomes difficulties up to 7b max and 6c obligatory.

The first ascent required three days of work. The three cousins, after a bivouac at the "Grand Hotel De Amicis," nearly completed the route on August 8th and 9th, but the final pitch was soaking wet and they were forced to retreat. They returned on August 18th to finish the job, reaching the Cresta de Amicis ridge before abseiling back down. Even though they admit they might be biased, in their opinion it is "one of the most beautiful rock climbs on the south face."

As to the name, they explain: "The name we chose has a very particular meaning. The symbol of the INFINITE KNOT is a powerful representation of eternal interconnection, spiritual growth, cosmic harmony, and good fortune. For the three of us, it represents the great brotherhood that unites us. This year marks the 160th anniversary of the first ascent of the Matterhorn and the founding of the Matterhorn Guide Society, of which all three of us are proud members. We like to imagine that this symbol reflects the strong bond that for 160 years has united the Matterhorn Guides with their mountain. Many years have passed, but the spirit with which the Guides live on this mountain has remained unchanged, and we hope it remains so for generations to come."