THE FORTS OR BARRIER OF THE SPUR

The Esseillon fortified barrier, an authentic Alpine rampart that stretches across the entire width of the valley, consists of five forts built in the early ^19th century. These forts are named after members of the Savoy royal family, who had them built as a precaution against possible French invasion. Fort Marie-Christine, perched at an altitude of 1,500 metres, is accessible via the "Plateau d'Aussois" footpath. It is open to visitors and offers temporary exhibitions. It also offers dining and accommodation options. Fort Victor-Emmanuel, at 1,354 meters above sea level, stands out as the most imposing of the Esseillon barrier, with its 8 double-level buildings set against a cliff top. A treasure hunt will allow you to follow in the footsteps of the soldier Alessandro. Fort Charles-Albert, built after the other four forts and left unfinished, is not open to visitors. Fort Charles-Félix was destroyed during the Annexation and is classified as a historic ruin, so cannot be visited. The Marie-Thérèse Redoubt, at an altitude of 1,258 meters, houses a fortified heritage interpretation center and offers an entertaining treasure hunt for children. These buildings, classified as Historic Monuments, were first owned by the Kingdom of Piedmont-Sardinia, then became French.