"Alpinism and mountains between France and Greece: values, community, evolution" (Table ronde « Alpinisme et montagne entre la France et la Grèce : au-delà du sport) held at the French Institute of Greece

Watch the speeches on video dubbed in french https://youtu.be/RQAGaKdLLco

The round table discussion at the French Institute of Greece brought together various speakers to explore different aspects of alpinism.

The event commenced with a historical overview of alpinism, tracing its origins and evolution, with a particular focus on the "golden age" and developments in Greece. The relationship between France and Greece in alpinism was thoroughly analyzed through the exchange of experiences and perspectives from the participants.

Particular emphasis was placed on the role of youth alpinism camps, highlighting their importance in promoting mountaineering and fostering a dynamic community. The discussion also extended to extreme alpinism, with references to Camus's myth of Sisyphus, delving into the philosophy and motivations behind high-risk ascents.

Furthermore, environmental concerns were expressed, addressing the impact of human activities and climate change on mountain environments. The historical underrepresentation of women in alpinism was acknowledged, while positive trends towards their greater participation were noted. Finally, a brief reference was made to safety and rescue in the mountains, highlighting the differences in rescue services between France and Greece.

The event was enriched with extensive photographic material from the activities of the alpinism centers and coincided with the opening of an exhibition by Alekos Asimakopoulos, an illustrator and climbing instructor.

This video chapters of the round table discussion [00:11].

The discussion brings together various speakers to explore different aspects of alpinism and mountaineering, including:

  • Historical overview of alpinism: Tracing its origins and evolution, particularly the "golden age" and developments in Greece [17:50].
  • The relationship between France and Greece in alpinism: Sharing experiences and perspectives [01:00:50].
  • The role of young alpinist centers: Discussing their importance in promoting mountaineering and creating new generations of enthusiasts [03:56].
  • Extreme alpinism: Delving into the philosophy and motivations behind high-risk ascents [01:07:31].
  • Environmental concerns: Addressing the impact of human activities and climate change on mountain environments [47:52].
  • Gender representation in alpinism: Acknowledging the historical underrepresentation of women and noting positive trends [01:26:51].
  • Safety and rescue in the mountains: Briefly touching upon differences in rescue services between France and Greece [01:30:08].

The event also included the presentation of a quiz for young Greek students about climbing [04:20] and an exhibition by Alekos Asimakopoulous, illustrator and aspiring high mountain guide [06:28].