Kasprowy Wierch is an iconic mountain for many reasons, but the true source of its status in Polish skiing and mountaineering culture, is the famous ropeway gondola. Built incredibly fast over 7 months (!) and opened to the public in 1936, was supposed to be one of the symbols of reclaimed Polish sovereignty, technological advancements and the country’s bald look into the future. Helicopters were still to be invented in those days and the builders had little or no experience in building such structures – but they did not lack determination and strength of hundreds of workers and porters who carried everything up.

In march 1936 first tourists and skiers were able to cover nearly 1000m of vertical drop in around 20 minutes, and thus Zakopane became one of the most renowned winter sports resorts of the era.