Back Where It Began

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Thanks to Tadeja from Citywall, my little sister Julija and I got an invitation to work in a small gym in Chongqing. It has been a long-time wish of mine to return to this beautiful city, where I kept coming back for the World Cup circuit from 2012 until 2018. I never really liked big cities, but Chongqing left a wonderful impression on me.

After a long journey and almost missing a few connecting flights, we finally arrived in Chongqing. We were warmly welcomed by Maxine and Eric Wu, who took us straight to our hotel. Since the Magic Lab gym was within walking distance, we went to take a quick look at it. It had a very nice energy—a good selection of holds, just the right size for a friendly atmosphere, and neighbors who feed and take care of the local cats. Of course, the cutest one ended up becoming the gym cat. We had a typical Chinese dinner downstairs after meeting the man of the house, Eric. We shared stories about our lifestyles over a few light Chinese beers and ended up chatting late into the night with some more drinks and great conversation.

I slept in late since we had no work on day two. I skipped breakfast and met Maxine and Julija in the lobby around midday. Maxine was our guide for the day, taking us to some great spots around the city. We visited some beautiful places I hadn’t seen before, and I got the feeling that China has truly grown into a great, modern place. More importantly, our guide Maxine was fantastic. She was happy to take us around, and her warm energy made the whole experience so much more interesting. The weather was also on our side, as they had been having many rainy days—a complete contrast to the weather Julija and I were used to from the World Cups years ago. Eric joined us later for the massage, and our day finished in the city center after midnight, sipping wonderful cocktail at the exact place that had left the biggest mark on my heart during my very first visit to Chongqing.

 


Friends, Climbing & Chongqing

 

Day three was a workday. We showed up late in the morning to readjust some boulders, which we later climbed on in front of a crowd. People were impressed by our climbing and listened carefully to the talk we gave together with Eric. He highlighted some of the milestones of our climbing careers, and we gave away some gifts from our sponsors, Illusion and Karpos. We also signed posters and took photos with our fans. We wrapped up the day with a traditional hot pot for dinner and went to bed to recharge.

 

The next day was my favorite. We rearranged some boulders and gave lessons to the locals. It was an incredible crowd that absorbed all of our knowledge. It was a relatively small group of climbers, and since we had enough time, I believe we managed to share almost all of our tips with every single one of them during a full day of hanging out. Later, we met up with our closest friends in our hotel room to play games, and we ended the night clubbing until 6:00 in the morning.

Luckily, we had until midnight the next day to set 11 boulders each. We filled up every empty space on the wall and set some incredible problems for the local community. We explained the movement and ideas behind the boulders in front of the camera, and gave away our last autographs and gifts to the locals.

We then had two days left to explore the nature and other sights around the city. Our hosts, whom we could by now call good friends, took us to a spot where we finally got to touch some real rock. Despite the poor weather conditions, we managed to send some sport routes up to 7c. The climbing was tough due to the high humidity, but it was still a lot of fun. Afterward, we experienced more of the local cuisine, went to a spa, and spent the entire next day shopping and eating. We received some meaningful gifts from our friends and left Chongqing with warm hearts and a difficult goodbye—even though we know we are going to see each other again soon.

 

Jernej Kruder x Citywall

 

The National Climbing Center Nieuwegein

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Is set to become one of the largest and most advanced climbing facilities in Europe. With over 5,500 m² of climbable surface and a 5,100 m² facility footprint, the project represents a major investment in the future of indoor climbing and active recreation in the Netherlands.

 

Citmat: delivering high-performance safety flooring designed to support climbers from their very first move to their biggest challenges.

 

 

The center will feature lead climbing walls reaching 18 meters in height, extensive bouldering areas, speed climbing, auto belay routes, training zones, outdoor climbing facilities, and dedicated spaces for youth programs, events, and competitions. Designed to serve both recreational climbers and elite athletes, the facility creates a comprehensive destination for sport, community, and performance.

Large-scale climbing centers continue to demonstrate their value as sustainable recreational investments, attracting diverse user groups, supporting local communities, and creating long-term opportunities for growth. The National Climbing Center Nieuwegein is an excellent example of how modern climbing infrastructure can become a regional destination and a catalyst for participation in the sport.

 

Lead climbing walls reaching 18 meters in height.

 

 

Citywall is proud to contribute to projects that push the boundaries of climbing facility development across Europe. From community climbing gyms to world-class climbing destinations, we support owners, investors, and operators in creating facilities that deliver lasting value and exceptional climbing experiences.

Explore the gallery and discover how one of Europe’s most ambitious climbing projects is coming to life.

 

 

 

Interested in building a world-class climbing facility? Get in touch with us to learn more.

📩 info@citywall.eu
📞 +386 41 953 855

 

Photo credit: Anže Sever

 

Integrating Climbing Walls into Heritage Buildings

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Preserving Heritage Through Minimal Intervention

At Citywall, we believe that the most successful architectural interventions are those that respect the identity of a place while creating opportunities for new experiences.

As cities evolve and buildings adapt to changing social and economic needs, architecture is increasingly challenged to support multiple functions within existing structures. Historic buildings, industrial facilities, religious spaces, and underutilized properties are being transformed into vibrant destinations that encourage movement, interaction, and community engagement.

Integrating climbing walls into these environments requires more than creativity. It demands a careful balance between heritage preservation, architectural integrity, structural responsibility, and user experience.

Our approach is based on a simple principle: work with the building, not against it.

Architectural Climbing Wall Design for Heritage and Adaptive Reuse Projects

Citywall specializes in the design, manufacture, and installation of commercial climbing walls that integrate seamlessly into heritage buildings, adaptive reuse developments, and contemporary architectural projects.

Rather than imposing new structures onto existing architecture, we develop climbing wall solutions that respond to the history, character, and spatial qualities of each building.

Every project begins with a detailed analysis of the architectural context, structural conditions, heritage requirements, and future use of the space. This process allows us to create climbing environments that enhance the building’s purpose while preserving its original identity.

Whether integrated into a historic warehouse, former industrial facility, church conversion, educational campus, or mixed-use development, our climbing wall systems are designed to complement the architecture rather than compete with it.

Pastor St. Willibrordus Church

 

Self-Supporting Structures and Reversible Interventions

Nestled in the heart of an ancient monastery and a renovated chapel, the venue blends heritage and modernity to offer an extraordinary experience. Climbing beneath the arches, moving through this setting steeped in history and beauty, is to embark on a sporting and family adventure in a setting as surprising as it is unforgettable: Gravity Fun, Monastère de la Visitation, Avenue de la Chapelle in 1950 Kraainem

 

One of the most important aspects of climbing wall integration in sensitive environments is minimizing the impact on the existing structure.

For heritage buildings and protected architectural assets, self-supporting climbing wall structures are often the preferred solution. These systems significantly reduce the need for permanent modifications and help preserve original construction elements.

Whenever possible, Citywall develops fully reversible interventions that allow the space to be restored to its original condition in the future. This approach aligns with the requirements of heritage authorities, conservation professionals, and building owners seeking long-term flexibility.

By reducing structural intervention while maintaining full functionality, we create climbing environments that respect both the building and its future possibilities.

Transforming Existing Buildings into Active Community Spaces

Across Europe and beyond, adaptive reuse architecture is becoming an increasingly important strategy for sustainable urban development.

Former industrial buildings, warehouses, churches, schools, and public facilities are being reimagined as destinations for recreation, education, and community engagement.

Commercial climbing walls offer a unique opportunity to activate these spaces while preserving their architectural significance.

By introducing climbing experiences into existing buildings, developers and architects can create environments that encourage physical activity, social interaction, and cultural value without compromising the original character of the structure.

The result is a meaningful connection between past, present, and future — where historic architecture continues to tell its story while supporting new forms of use and engagement.

 

Bouldering in Veldhoven’s Sint-Willibrorduskerk: a unique climbing experience!

 

 

The Roof – Maison de l’escalade in Rennes, France, is a renowned bouldering gym housed inside the historic Hôtel-Dieu Hospital complex

 

Climbing Wall Solutions for Architects, Developers, and Climbing Centers

Citywall collaborates with architects, developers, municipalities, heritage consultants, educational institutions, and climbing center operators to deliver integrated climbing wall solutions tailored to each project.

Our services include:

  • Architectural climbing wall design
  • Commercial climbing wall manufacturing
  • Climbing wall installation
  • Self-supporting climbing wall structures
  • Heritage-sensitive climbing wall integration
  • Adaptive reuse and redevelopment consulting
  • Custom climbing holds and route-setting solutions
  • Indoor and outdoor climbing wall systems

Through close collaboration with project stakeholders, we ensure that every climbing wall contributes to the architectural vision, functional requirements, and long-term value of the building.

Maniak Padoue – Church Saint Antoine De Padoue, Belgium

 

Respecting the Past. Designing for the Future.

At the heart of every Citywall project is a commitment to responsible design.

We create climbing environments that respect architectural heritage, support contemporary use, and strengthen community connections. By carefully bridging the past, present, and future, our climbing wall solutions enable buildings to evolve while preserving the stories embedded within them.

The result is architecture that remains authentic, adaptable, and relevant for generations to come.

The Citywall Architectural & Design Team

 

Why climbing is ideal solution for schools, kindergartens and family centers?

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In today’s world, where children are increasingly spending time indoors and in front of screens, creating engaging and active environments has become more important than ever. Schools, kindergartens, and family entertainment centers are constantly searching for solutions that are not only fun, but also educational, safe, and development-oriented.

One of the most effective and increasingly popular solution are children’s climbing walls.

Climbing walls are no longer just a sports feature—they are a powerful tool for physical development, engagement, and business growth, making them an ideal addition to any child-focused space.

Climbing as a natural form of movement

Climbing is one of the most natural forms of movement for children. From a very early age, children instinctively climb—on playgrounds, furniture, trees, and structures around them. This natural behavior plays a key role in their development.

Climbing helps children engage their entire body while improving balance and coordination, developing strength and flexibility, and enhancing spatial awareness.

By introducing a climbing wall into a school or recreational space, you provide a structured and safe way for children to explore this natural movement.

How climbing walls support child development

Climbing is not just a physical activity—it is also a cognitive and emotional challenge.

While climbing, children must make decisions, solve movement problems, plan their next step and overcome fear. This leads to the development of:
– self-confidence
– concentration
– resilience
– problem-solving skills

Reaching the top of a climbing wall gives children a strong sense of achievement, which positively impacts their self-esteem. Additionally, climbing often involves interaction with others. Whether children are climbing together or taking turns, they learn to trust, to communicate and to cooperate.These are essential life skills that go far beyond physical activity.

Safety first

Safety is one of the most important considerations when installing a climbing wall in schools or kindergartens. Professional climbing walls must comply with the EN 12572 safety standard, which regulates:
– structural design
– materials used
– safety systems
– fall protection

For educational environments, we recommend bouldering walls (low climbing walls) as the best option for children. These systems ensure maximum safety without the need for ropes or harnesses. In indoor settings, soft safety mats provide protection, while outdoor installations use rubber or other impact-absorbing surfaces to reduce the impact of falls.

Regular inspections are essential to ensure long-term safety and performance, including daily visual checks, monthly maintenance, and annual safety inspections. With proper design and maintenance, Citywall climbing walls are a safe and reliable solution for children of all ages.

Flexible solutions for every space

One of the biggest advantages of climbing walls is their flexibility and customization.

Climbing walls can be designed to fit:
– small or large spaces
– indoor or outdoor environments
– different age groups
– specific educational or commercial goals.

Available options include:
– indoor climbing walls
– outdoor climbing walls
– bouldering walls
– high climbing walls
– themed climbing structures (animals, rocks, interactive designs)
– modular 3D climbing panels.

Materials are selected based on the environment, with wooden panels typically used for indoor applications and polyester or fiberglass structures chosen for outdoor durability. This flexibility allows every project to be tailored to the exact needs of the client.

Climbing walls as a smart investment

Climbing walls are not just a play feature—they are a long-term investment that brings measurable benefits. For schools and kindergartens, they enhance physical education programs, increase student engagement, and support healthy child development. For family centers, restaurants, and tourism facilities, they help attract more visitors, extend the length of stay, improve customer satisfaction, and create a strong competitive advantage. Parents actively look for places where their children can play, move, and learn. A climbing wall creates a strong attraction that makes families return.

The importance of design and motivation

Children are naturally motivated by fun and visually engaging environments, which is why modern climbing walls are designed with vibrant colors, creative shapes, and themed concepts such as animal-shaped structures, rock-like surfaces, and interactive routes. A well-designed climbing wall encourages children to explore, try again, and reach the top—making this type of motivation essential for long-term engagement.

Why choose Citywall climbing solutions

With 30+ years of experience, Citywall specializes in custom climbing wall solutions for all ages.

Key advantages:
– fully customized design
– compliance with international safety standards
– wide range of materials and styles
– expert consulting and planning
– full service: design → production → installation

Each project is carefully designed to maximize available space, ensure safety, and create an attractive, functional environment. Climbing walls are more than just playground equipment—they are a complete solution for child development, engagement, and business growth.

Whether you are a school, kindergarten, or family entertainment center, investing in a climbing wall means creating a space where children can move, learn, grow and have fun – and most importantly: where they will want to come back.

Tell us about your project and get a custom design proposal!

Citywall is building the largest and most modern climbing centre in the Benelux region

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Climbing hub of the Netherlands

The National Climbing Center (NCC) will be the largest and most modern climbing center in the Benelux. Located in the Hoeverijk district of Nieuwegein, the NCC sets new standards for climbing. An unparalleled variety of climbing and bouldering facilities, an official speed wall, and state-of-the-art training rooms make this place unique for both beginners and elite athletes. With its spacious layout and abundant natural light, the center is open, inspiring, and welcoming — a place where climbing is elevated to a whole new level!

Citywall is building this beautiful climbing centre with its own climbing walls (indoor and outdoor), Citymat safety mats and additional gym furniture. Read more about it down below.

Climbing at the core

Climbing is at the heart of everything here, and that is immediately visible: climbing activities can be seen from the outside, and a large part of the façade will also become a climbing wall. This creates a lively atmosphere in the square, where the climbing world and the neighborhood come together. The waterfront square will be a pleasant meeting place, perfect for events and competitions.

A pedestrian path runs directly through the NCC (see the orange arrow).

A pedestrian path runs directly through the NCC (see the orange arrow).

A place to meet and experience

A major walking route passes directly through the NCC and connects the square with the surrounding area. Convenient services such as a restaurant and the climbing hall are located right on the square, making the space vibrant and active. On the ground floor, you will find the experience center offering a wide range of La Sportiva shoes and Petzl products. You will also find a physiotherapy practice with a fitness area.

A pleasant gathering spot by the water.

A pleasant gathering spot by the water.

Climbing at all levels – from fun to elite sport

On the first floor, there is a training room with spray walls and simulation walls, which is connected to the “guest house.” Not only Dutch athletes can stay here — teams from abroad are welcome as well. But the NCC is certainly not intended only for elite athletes! Recreational climbers, families, and beginners are more than welcome. On the ground floor, you will find the beginner zone (“learning plaza”) and a fun-climbing area, ideal for discovering climbing and bouldering in an accessible way. There will also be climbing and bouldering sessions after school, where children can explore climbing in a playful manner.

Climbing activities can be seen throughout the entire building. The large bouldering hall on the second floor is spacious and suitable for both recreational and enthusiastic climbers. There will also be a separate training area with kilterboards and hangboards. The design of the NCC plays an important role in the atmosphere and overall experience, allowing everyone — from beginners to professionals — to fully immerse themselves in the world of climbing.

The National Climbing Center in context of the current gym

Facts and Information

The current climbing center, located just a stone’s throw from the new site, will close its doors at the end of this year. But don’t worry: the brand-new NCC will open at the beginning of 2026, offering more space, facilities, and climbing opportunities than ever before!

National Training Center (NTC)

The NKBV National Training Center (NTC) will open its doors in Nieuwegein at the beginning of 2026. From then on, all climbers of the Dutch national climbing team will train at this brand-new Mountain Network location.

A unique place

This location is a major asset for climbing in the Netherlands. It is a unique place where elite and recreational sports come together, where passion and performance go hand in hand, and where climbers of today and tomorrow can grow.

The National Climbing Center Nieuwegein (NCCN) hosts the NKBV National Training Center (NTC): a top-level facility for talent development and elite sports. Here, the best Dutch climbing champions have the opportunity to continue developing their skills while inspiring new generations of climbing talent to reach their full potential.

Whether you dream of international competitions or simply want to push your limits, this location offers everything you need — from advanced training facilities to an encouraging environment where the climbing community comes together.

Be sure to watch this short video of the new climbing and bouldering gym:

 

If you also want to build such wonderful climbing centre, just let us know and send us an offer request: info@citywall.eu or 00386 41 953 85.

 

Citywall team

Jernej Kruder and ‘Big fish’ (8c+/9a) on the island of Mallorca

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Slovenian climber and our ambasador Jernej Kruder has repeated ‘Big fish’, the 8c+/9a deep water solo on the island of Mallorca in Spain. Established by Chris Sharma in 2017, this is now only the third ascent of this 20m psicobloc after the first repeat in 2023 by Matty Hong.

This story begins and ends differently from the rest of them lately. After sending Chris Sharma’s Es Pontas back in 2016, I set my eyes on his Alasha, which at that time was the second hardest psicobloc line in the world. I spent many days on it and put in a lot of effort, but the route simply wouldn’t let me pass. At some point, I gave up. It was a hard decision, but luckily for me, Chris opened another line – Big Fish. It was slightly lower in grade but with the crux nearly 20 meters above the sea. The moves seemed doable, but the place was dark and intimidating.

I returned in 2023 to give it my full effort. After a few days, I got comfortable with the height and even managed to reach the last hard move. Then the weather turned bad, and my head gave in. I left Mallorca empty-handed. Last year, I bought plane tickets again. But just before leaving, I decided to stay home due to poor weather and to prepare better for my upcoming trip to Yosemite.

This year, things were completely different for me. I focused entirely on outdoor climbing. I did some hard multipitch routes and boulder problems, and I even managed to finish two of my trad projects on the last days of my trips. I was quite happy with my season so far, so the only thing left for the year was to check out Big Fish once again. I didn’t have high expectations — I hadn’t trained or climbed hard since my climbing trip to Squamish. Honestly, I just wanted to see if it was worth coming back in December.

My first sensations after two years felt surprisingly good. I didn’t feel too weak and, importantly, I felt very comfortable high above the water. Falling twice from the first hard move on the first day was more of an introduction to falling again than a real attempt to send the line.

The next day was different. I was there with just two friends – Jairo and Carlos. I felt ready to commit. The sea was calm, and the air was dry. I cruised through the first section. Then time seemed to stop. I was completely in the moment – no sound of my friends cheering, no music from the speaker, no thoughts about the past or the future. Just pure focus on the next move. I climbed through the crux and suddenly found myself standing on top of one of my favorite lines in the world.

After the conditions deteriorated, I spent the rest of my trip simply enjoying the island and checking out new projects. On my last day, I sent Face Your Fear (8b) on my second go.

– Jernej Kruder, Slovenia

 

 

IFSC Koper 2025

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The IFSC Climbing World Cup Koper 2025 was the 417th Climbing World Cup event in history, featuring the 236th Lead World Cup competition. Also, it is the 32nd Climbing World Cup held in Slovenia, the fourth in Koper.

The event was on 5 and 6 September and the 2025 IFSC Lead World Cup series title was won here aswell.

In woman competition the winner was Janja Gambret, second was Chaehyun Seo, the third was Laura Rogora.

In man competition the winner was Sorato Anraku, the second was Alberto Gines Lopez, while the third on the podium was Toby Roberts.

The IFSC Lead World Cup title for 2025 in woman’s competition got Chaehyun Seo, while “the king” in man’s competition in lead climbing for 2025 is Sorato Anraku.

Great climbings, unforgettable moments, check the gallery down below.

 

 

Kanjonfest 2025

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Citywall contributed to this year’s Kanjonfest 2025.

Rooted in the local community, Kanjonfest brought together climbers from all around the globe. 🌍

The festival offered inspiring workshops, a fun climbing program and countless moments of sharing experiences, energy and passion for climbing. 💪🧗‍♀️

📸 Check out the gallery, relive the vibe of this unique festival, and make sure to book your spot for next year!

Check all the fun and unforgettable moments from the Kanjonfest 2025 via gallery.

 

 

Jernej Kruder conquers Crown Royale – A vertical triumph in the heart of Norway

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In the wild, remote expanse of Norway’s mountainous heartland, where granite walls rise like cathedrals and the wind whispers only to the brave, Jernej Kruder has carved another line into climbing history. The Slovenian climbing icon has successfully ascended the formidable Crown Royale – the route established by Pete Whittaker two years ago and a striking peak known not only for its stunning profile but also for its demanding routes and unforgiving conditions.

A challenge fit for Royalty

Towering high above the alpine valleys, Crown Royale is a natural sculpture of sharp ridgelines, overhanging faces, and exposed pitches that demand not only physical strength but also mental precision. Its golden granite glows in the evening sun, but behind that beauty lies a wall that has humbled many.

For Jernej, this wasn’t just another tick on the list. This was a dream realized – a culmination of years of experience, bold vision, and a deep connection to the vertical.

“From the very first moment I saw it, I knew I had to climb it. Crown Royale has this magnetic pull. It’s wild, it’s elegant, and brutally honest,” Jernej said after the climb.

The line, the climb, the flow

The route Jernej tackled is as poetic as it is punishing – a multi-pitch masterpiece weaving through technical slabs, explosive overhangs, and delicate aretes. Every move required the balance of raw power and refined finesse – skills that Jernej, known for his dynamic style and creativity, brings in spades.

What sets this ascent apart is not just the grade, but the style – clean, controlled, and on-sight. No pre-placed gear, no rehearsals. Just man versus mountain, in its purest form.

A statement beyond the send

For the climbing community, this ascent is more than a personal achievement. It’s a reminder of the value of adventure, of pushing into the unknown. It’s about embracing nature not as a backdrop, but as a partner in the experience.

Citywall, big supporter of Jernej Kruder, proudly celebrates this monumental feat.

“We’ve always known Jernej was capable of redefining boundaries. What he’s done on Crown Royale is not just a climb – it’s a work of art,” said a Citywall’s representative.

Looking ahead

While the chalk from Crown Royale still lingers on his hands, Jernej is already looking to new horizons. But one thing is clear: this ascent will echo in the granite corridors of climbing lore for years to come.

We can only wait – and watch in awe – as Jernej Kruder continues to ascend, both literally and symbolically.

CRACK Festival at Boulderwelt Dortmund was amazing

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Crack Festival was the premiere event in Germany. The famous crack climbers and YouTubers Wide Boyz, world-known climber Jernej Kruder and others have teamed up to bring the extremely successful Crack Fest event from England to Dortmund (Boulderwelt)!

This time it was one step further: we didn’t just have one day of Crack Fest with Pete Whittaker and Tom Randall – no, we have been treating ourselves to a whole weekend and turned the event into a festival!

It was tons of fun and all about crack climbing in all its various forms and dimensions.

There was something for everyone, not just for professionals, but for those at Boulder World Level 3-4 (fb scale 4c upwards).

All attendees gained a lot of new technical inputs from the Wide Boyz and our other sponsors during the workshops and clinics, even for crack climbing beginners!

There was also a playful competition with great fun elements at the Crack Fest and additional challenges with fantastic prizes.

Jernej Kruder said: “Crackfest was really a unique festival. It surprises me how many people are interested in crack climbing in general. All the workshops were fully booked, and people were absorbing knowledge more than I’m used to.”

 

Check all the fun and unforgettable moments from the Crack Festival via gallery.