Zurbriggen was arguably the first "global" mountain guide. Though his roots were in the Saas Valley and Macugnaga, his influence on the Matterhorn was profound.

By retracing the steps of Zurbriggen and the early Julens, modern climbers acknowledge that the descent is where legends are truly tested—referencing the tragic fall during Whymper's original 1865 descent. 5. Conclusion

The 2022 focus on Zurbriggen and Julen serves as more than just a historical tribute; it is a reminder of the enduring human connection to the Matterhorn. Their legacies demonstrate that the true art of the mountain lies not just in standing at the peak, but in the skill, poise, and safety of the return to the valley below.

In 2022, "The Descent on the Matterhorn" emerged as a theme for various media projects. This narrative choice subverts the traditional "conquest" trope of the ascent.

Unlike many of his contemporaries, Zurbriggen viewed the descent as the most dangerous and technically demanding phase of the climb.

The Julen name is synonymous with Zermatt. For generations, members of the Julen family served as the primary protectors of the Matterhorn routes.