What is a Via Ferrata?
The ferrata originated in World War II, when the military equipped different routes in the Italian Dolomites for moving soldiers and supplies.
Currently they denominate recreational routes equipped for sports, with steps and a lifeline that provide access to heights and areas inaccessible to people who are not used to climbing.
The presence of a cable as a lifeline along the route avoids the need of ropes and other securing devices. The only necessary equipment is a helmet, a harness and lanyards with an energy absorbing system.
These are open access routes that anyone can perform free of charge and at their own risk, but one needs to have access to the required equipment and meet the technical and safety standards for safe practice.