For decades, little was known about alpine developments in Eastern Europe due to the isolation of the Soviet bloc. Occasionally, a meteor would appear in the Alps, leaving everyone in awe with remarkable exploits, but no one really questioned where these exceptional climbers had come from. 

It took time to realize that behind them was a long and deeply rooted tradition and that Eastern European climbers belonged to a vast and dynamic community. Driven by a desire for escape that only those who have been forcibly confined can truly understand, they trained and refined their techniques, waiting for the first good opportunity to break through borders and set out to explore the Alps and climbing walls around the world. 

One of those who personally experienced this kind of vertical diaspora in the early 1990s is Jiri Leskovjan, originally from Ostrava and now based in Arco, where he works as a mountain guide. 

For years, his stories fueled our imagination and increased our curiosity about discovering his homeland firsthand. Thanks to him, in September 2024, we finally had the opportunity to travel to two legendary locations—Adrspach and Dolni Zleb—where Czech climbing has its roots. 

This work is the account of our small journey. 

Directed by: Alessandro D’Emilia
Produced by: Montura - Mountain Film Crew
Running Time: 25 minutes
Year: 2024