Back cultural heritage

The monumental entrance to the Mont Cenis rail tunnel

Furnaces
© Impressive entrance to the Modane rail tunnel - C. Di Filippo
  • © Impressive entrance to the Modane rail tunnel - C. Di Filippo
  • © Impressive entrance to the Modane rail tunnel - C. Di Filippo

Built during the first Alpine breakthrough (1857–1871), this monument features a steam locomotive and its train, as well as a permanent exhibition chronicling the history of the first Alpine tunnel and its impact...

Description

The monumental entrance to the Mont-Cenis Rail Tunnel was built between 1857 and 1871 as part of the very first railway tunnel through the Alps. At the time (19th century), it was the longest railway tunnel between France and Italy.
The tunnel is located in the commune of Fourneaux and is listed as a historic monument.

The site has been enhanced by the Musée de la Traversée des Alpes (MTA) association, with the installation of a steam locomotive and its train from the early 20th century.
The two carriages house an exhibition of documents and artifacts, as well as a film retracing the incredible human adventure of digging the tunnel.

The exhibition at the monumental entrance to the Mont-Cenis rail tunnel is currently closed to the public.

Environments

  • Mountain location
  • Village - 2 km away

Rates

Free entry for children under 15.

Opening period

Closed temporarily.

Spoken languages

  • French

Location

Additional booking

Reservation recommended for groups.

Animals

Pets allowed : No

The monumental entrance to the Mont Cenis rail tunnel
  • Private museum
Route de Bardonnèche 73500 Fourneaux