HISTORICAL STAGES OF THE FORMATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF MOUNTAINEERING IN UKRAINE AND THE WORLD

Abstract

This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the historical stages of the formation and development of mountaineering as an activity that combines sports, cultural, scientific, and spiritual-philosophical aspects. The genesis of mountaineering is traced from utilitarian forms of movement in mountainous terrain in ancient times to the modern multidimensional phenomenon of global culture. Based on an analysis of contemporary foreign and Ukrainian scholarly sources, the key trends influencing the evolution of mountaineering practice are identified: technological progress, the formation of national sports schools, changes in worldview orientations, and humanistic values. The role of the Renaissance in establishing a new attitude towards nature, which led to the transition from utilitarian to aesthetic-cognitive perception of mountains, is highlighted. The purpose of the article is to examine the main historical stages of the formation and development of mountaineering in the world and in Ukraine, to identify the cultural, social, and technological factors that influenced its evolution, and to highlight the distinctive features of the Ukrainian mountaineering tradition within the context of global trends. The "golden age of mountaineering" (mid-19th century) is analyzed as a period of the formation of organized mountaineering movements in Europe. The authors’ publications draw attention to the importance of promoting mountaineering and highlighting the achievements and accomplishments of climbers, which helps attract interest to the regions and countries where this sport is developing. Extensive coverage of mountaineering events and competitions contributes to enhancing the prestige and recognition of countries in this field. Special attention is paid to the development of mountaineering in Ukraine, including its institutional establishment, sporting achievements, and current status. It is shown that Ukrainian mountaineering has absorbed the best European traditions and developed its own system of athlete training while maintaining a cultural and educational function. The results of the study can be used for further research in the fields of sports history, tourism, and cultural studies, as well as for improving educational programs in physical education and sports tourism.