3 JUL 2013 - The Maurinne Valley in Vanoise National Park in France includes some amazing forts that were built by the Kingdom of Piedmont-Sardinia (a province which is now part of Italy) from 1819-1834. The forts were built not long after Napoleon's defeat as a means to ensure he never invaded Piedmont-Sardinia again. While the forts are impressive, they were never used in battle. We had a great time exploring them!
Forts Esseillon, France
A stock picture of the fort taken from the approach from the valley. Quite a site.
As would be expected, the forts have prime locations in the valley that have amazing views. This is the main road leading to the fort.
A number of buildings outside the fort appeared as though they were once used for garrisoning troops or local towns folk. In any case, the elements have gotten the best of them.
One of the more impressive areas of the fort is the inner road that allowed the forts' defenders to move large cannons from one area of the fort to another. The incline on this road was significant. One of the worst jobs you could have was to move a cannon from one end of the fort to the other. Apparently, the large bumps in the road were there to ensure that a cannon couldn't easily get away from the soldiers and slide to the bottom. Tough work.
At the bottom of the fort looking towards the valley, you can easily see the adjoining fort along with an amazing river and waterfall.
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