The first ascent of the route “Kalidonische pfeiler” (V+, 160m) was realized in the 1970s by H. Lidner - R. Lidner.
The line is located in the “Tower” section and starts between the “Oh stranger, announce” and “Beetle” routes.
Because the route follows a zigzag course on the rock, it has confused many climbers who have followed straighter lines, thus creating several variations.
Its most important variation follows the crack-dihedral (V+) located to its right, which in fact requires physical belaying.
Confusion is also caused by its length. A. Theodoropoulos, after the 2nd belay, draws the line to go diagonally right and up, so as to exit to the ledge, giving a total length of 160m. G. Aligiannis draws it to consist of only the first two pitches, with a total length of 80m.
When it was established and for the next years, it had no bolts and belays, only a few pitons were left and physical belaying was necessary for its repetition. In 1991, A. Theodoropoulos bolted the first two pitches and installed permanent belays, with the aim of converting it into a training route.
Necessary gear for repeating the entire route or its variation are a series of nuts, some friends and straps.
The return after its completion is done by rappelling from the same route. Up to the 2nd belay, we can descend directly, but if we climb the full length up to the ledge, then we must either move left to find the rappels or walk to the right and descend from the climbing path.
Old sketch by D. Korres.