Climbing Excalibur – Stefano Ghisolfi

Grasping onto diminutive holds angled on a 40-degree steep wall, climber Stefano Ghisolfi confronts the gravity-defying ascent of “Excalibur,” a route that stands as a pinnacle of rock climbing difficulty. In concert with some of the world’s elite climbers, Ghisolfi navigated the precipitous challenge offered by this demanding climb. With steadfast commitment, he dedicated two years to the meticulous planning and execution necessary for undertaking this monumental endeavor. His perseverance and skill culminated dramatically when he accomplished the first ascent of Excalibur, thereby establishing the route as the toughest in Italy—and among the most challenging on the global stage, rated at an extraordinary grade of 9b+. The achievement not only marks a milestone in Ghisolfi’s climbing career but also sets a new benchmark in the sport, raising the bar for what can be considered possible in the vertical world.