Baratro vibes

The “secret” crag above Trieste, Baratro, was the place to be this summer. Hidden high above the Adriatic, the steep cave witnessed a wave of impressive sends, personal bests, and new energy from the youngest generation of climbers. Here are some highlights.

It all kicked off when 14-year-old Italian talent Leonardo Blaustig clipped the chains of his first 8b+, the famous Holokaust. Not long after, his achievement was matched by 15-year-old Pietro Franzoni and Lorenzo Zavatta, proving that the next generation is more than ready to rise to the challenge.

Holokaust (8b+) may be short—around 15 meters—but it packs a punch. The line splits into two sections, separated by a comfortable rest in a big hole. The first half is a fight against bad crimps, pinches, and sketchy feet, testing raw power endurance. The second half transforms into a bouldery sequence on undercuts before demanding enough fitness to keep it together to the chains. For those still hungry, the line continues into Sultano nero (8c), an outstanding 30-meter extension characterized by relentless endurance climbing—one of the crown jewels of Baratro.

While the youngsters were busy ticking Holokaust, local powerhouse Sebastian Castenetto showed that experience and mileage pay off. He dispatched Il sicario sanguinario (8c), a long and demanding journey that climbs the full cave of Baratro, starting in the heart of the overhang and pushing all the way to daylight at the lip.

Also in Baratro, the ex World Cup champion, Mina Markovič climbed just another 8b+ for he, the amazing endurance testpiece La peste nera (8b+).

Not far away from Baratro, just across the border in the giant cave of Osp, Cristiana Stocca closed her long-term project, clipping the chains of the incredible Active discharge (8a). This route is a true test of endurance, weaving its way through spectacular stalactites that make Osp so unique.

A big congratulations to all the climbers for their inspiring achievements!

The weather outlook for the coming days is promising: sunny skies, mild temperatures around 20–25°C, and only the chance of a few afternoon showers—perfect conditions to get out on the rock.

And don’t forget: next weekend brings the IFSC Lead World Cup in Koper—a must-see event for any climbing fan.

Get out, climb hard, and enjoy the rocks!