Death on the Matterhorn – why do so many mountaineers underestimate this iconic peak?

The Matterhorn is not only one of the most famous peaks in the world, but also one of the deadliest. Since it was first climbed in 1865, more than 600 mountaineers have lost their lives on its faces; in 2024 alone, there have already been seven tragic deaths.

Despite modern infrastructure and its international fame, the Matterhorn remains a scene of tragedy. “NZZ Format” explores the pressing question of why so many underestimate the risk. The documentary provides deep insights by accompanying Anjan Truffer, mountain guide and rescue chief at Air Zermatt, to the high-altitude Solvay Biwak. At the same time, the film shows how hut keeper Edith Lehner at the Hörnli Hut lives with the accidents on the mountain. It also follows mountaineer Meli Rüfenacht on her ascent of the Matterhorn – one year after she witnessed a fatal fall.

The documentary not only highlights the physical dangers of alpinism, but also the psychological consequences and the culture of risk. How do the bereaved cope with sudden loss? What coping strategies do rescue workers develop when confronted with death and trauma? And what role do social media play when more and more people venture up the mountain unprepared and recklessly?

“Death on the Matterhorn” is an examination of the fascination and dark side of mountaineering. It serves as a reminder that even the smallest mistakes can have fatal consequences in the high mountains.

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