On Saturday, August 10, 2024, in Ghotolti Ishkoman, Pakistan, the Cristina Castagna Center was inaugurated.
On August 10, in the district of Ghizer, Gilgit-Baltistan (Pakistan), the Cristina Castagna Center, a refuge designed to promote mountaineering, mountain tourism, and local economic development, was officially opened. Built by Montagna e Solidarietà APS with the support of the Italian Alpine Club (CAI), the center will offer tourist accommodations and mountain technique training courses, with a special focus on empowering women.
A Tribute to Cristina Castagna
The center is dedicated to the memory of Cristina Castagna, an Italian mountaineer who tragically lost her life on Broad Peak. It features a commemorative bas-relief created by Gibo Perlotto at the request of her family. The resin and bronze sculpture (36x8x43 cm) is a replica of a bronze piece placed in 2016 at the Mario Fraccaroli refuge, located near Cima Carega in the Piccole Dolomiti range. Cristina’s sister attended the inauguration alongside the involved associations, paying homage to the mountaineer’s legacy.
A Symbol of International Cooperation
As part of the K2–70 project, which celebrates the 70th anniversary of the first ascent of K2, the refuge symbolizes a significant initiative in fostering cooperation between Italy and Pakistan. The event was attended by Italian and Pakistani authorities, along with numerous mountaineering enthusiasts and professionals. The Cristina Castagna Center aims to become a hub for developing safe, eco-friendly mountain tourism while inspiring future generations.
“EL GRIO” (A tribute to Cristina Castagna)
Material: Bronze-Resin
Dimensions: 36x8x43 cm (H)
Weight: Resin plaque 1 kg
Year: 2024
Cristina Castagna Center (Pakistan)
