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Era Vella

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description Era Vella Overview

Era Vella is a renowned 9a sport climbing route located in Margalef, Spain. Chris Sharma established it in 2010, making it a significant and frequently attempted climb within the classic Spanish style. The route’s difficulty and location draw experienced sport climbers seeking challenging problems and exposure. It’s particularly relevant for those focused on advanced technical climbing and competition-level performance.

help Era Vella FAQ

Who did the first ascent of Era Vella?

American climber Chris Sharma made the first ascent of Era Vella in 2010. The route quickly became one of the most sought-after 9a testpieces in the world.

Where is Era Vella located?

Era Vella is located in the Margalef climbing area in Catalonia, Spain. Margalef is renowned for its steep, pocketed limestone walls and is one of the premier sport climbing destinations in Europe.

What grade is Era Vella on the French climbing scale?

Era Vella is graded 9a on the French scale, which corresponds to roughly 5.14d in the Yosemite Decimal System. The grade has been confirmed by numerous repeat ascents since Sharma's first ascent in 2010.

What makes Era Vella stylistically challenging?

Era Vella features sustained climbing on pockets and tufas on slightly overhanging limestone, demanding significant endurance and finger strength. The route is long enough that the crux moves come when the climber is already significantly pumped.

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