Mercedario, Southwest Face. The approach of an Italian expedition from Gorizia up the Rio Colorado began on January 13. Base Camp was set up at 12,510 feet still ten miles from the peak. Camps were established at 14,775, 17,725, and 19,675 feet. A first attempt on January 21 was beaten back by wind. On January 27 Mauro Collini, Sergio Figel, Mario Tavagnutti and Rudi Vittori reached the summit (6670 meters, 21,884 feet).