At a first glance the tower of Punta Emma can be hard to distinguish from the broad mass of Cima Catinaccio. However closer inspection reveals an elegant little peak perched directly above Rifugios Preuss and Vajolet. The tower derives its name from the first ascensionist, Emma della Giacomo, who climbing with Tita Piaz, reached the summit in 1899 via today's descent route. Punta Emma is, for good reason, one of the most popular peaks of the Catinaccio group. The approach is relatively short, the face gets a good amount of sun and the descent is uncomplicated. The routes are on good rock and provide superb climbing without exception. This popularity has resulted in some polished sections, most notably on the crux pitches of the classic Piaz Crack. Whilst scrabbling for purchase just remind yourself that Piaz climbed this route solo in 1900 and you'll feel better!