Since it was first ascended in 1865, over 600 climbers have lost their lives on the peak.

Despite modern infrastructure and global awareness of the risks, tragedy strikes the Matterhorn again and again. This film asks why so many climbers misjudge the risks. "Death on the Matterhorn" follows mountain guide and head of rescue operations, Anjan Truffer, up to Solvay Bivouac — one of the mountain's high-altitude huts. It shows how Edith Lehner, warden of the nearby Hörnli Hut, lives with the losses. The crew also accompanies climber Meli Rüfenacht on her first ascent of the Matterhorn — one year after she herself witnessed a fatal fall.

This documentary takes a look beyond the physical risks that come with mountain climbing to explore the psychological toll. How do families cope with the sudden losses? How do rescue crews live with the constant exposure to death and trauma? And — with more climbers than ever attempting the ascent without proper preparation — what role is social media playing? "Death on the Matterhorn" examines both the pull and the perils of mountaineering — and comes with a clear warning: In the high alps, even the smallest mistake can end in death.
 

 

Broadcasting Hours: 

DW English

MON 12.01.2026 – 18:30 UTC
MON 12.01.2026 – 23:30 UTC
TUE 13.01.2026 – 03:30 UTC
TUE 13.01.2026 – 09:15 UTC
TUE 13.01.2026 – 12:15 UTC
TUE 13.01.2026 – 16:15 UTC
TUE 13.01.2026 – 21:15 UTC
WED 14.01.2026 – 07:30 UTC
WED 14.01.2026 – 10:30 UTC
WED 14.01.2026 – 17:30 UTC

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