Simplon Tunnel, Alpine railway tunnel between Brig, Switzerland and Iselle, Italy
The Simplon Tunnel is an international railway passage under the Alps linking Brig in Switzerland to Iselle in Italy. The project consists of two parallel tubes, each about 20 kilometers long, that carry trains daily with passengers and freight.
The first section was completed in 1905 after seven years of intense excavation work, with laborers battling extreme heat and water intrusion. The official opening in 1906 marked a major breakthrough for European railway development.
The name comes from the nearby Simplon Pass, a historic Alpine crossing that has connected people for centuries. Today, travelers see monuments and plaques at stations on both sides marking this link between two nations.
Electric trains run through at speeds around 160 kilometers per hour and carry passengers and goods daily. Car shuttle services operate regularly, allowing drivers to conveniently transport their vehicles across.
An original ventilation gallery dug during construction later served as the foundation for building the second parallel tube. This solution showcased innovative engineering that proved valuable for safety and maintenance work.
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