HANGED HOUSE

On the road to Valfréjus, it's worth pausing in front of Modane's Maison penchée. Set in a mountain setting, it appears to be the Alpine answer to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and ranks as one of Europe's most unusual attractions. At first glance, the building could pass for a film set, so surreal is its appearance. But behind this intriguing appearance lies an equally captivating story. Built in 1939, the Maison penchée was originally a strategic blockhouse, tasked with keeping watch over France and Italy. Its fate changed in 1944, when retreating German troops methodically destroyed all infrastructure to slow the Allied advance. At the tunnel entrance on the French side, two wagons loaded with explosives were detonated, triggering a massive explosion that buried the powder magazine and blocked the tunnel. Against all odds, the blockhouse withstood the blast. It was thrown from its original position, sinking into the ground and leaning in a way that seems to defy the laws of physics. Today, this puzzling structure, often covered in graffiti, remains a curiosity open to visitors. Although not strictly speaking a "house", its strange inclination continues to capture the imagination of passers-by. A nearby sign tells its surprising story, and the place is an ideal setting for original photos. It's an unexpected and memorable stopover for those traveling through this region of the Alps.