Mont Terri, Mountain summit in Cornol, Switzerland
Mont Terri is a mountain summit standing 804 meters high in the Jura region near Cornol, composed of limestone and featuring varied geological layers throughout. Underground tunnels and laboratory spaces within the mountain serve as research facilities for studying clay rock and subsurface storage methods.
The mountain holds archaeological evidence of prehistoric human settlement dating back to ancient times in Swiss history. This early occupation demonstrates that the location has long held importance for human activity in the region.
The mountain serves as a hub for collaborative scientific research that shapes how people understand underground geological environments. The presence of researchers and their work facilities reflects a modern role for this location as a center for international knowledge sharing.
You can reach the mountain by following marked hiking trails starting from Cornol, with options to explore the area at your own pace. It is advisable to check ahead about visiting hours for the underground facility, as access may be restricted to certain times.
Inside the mountain, researchers conduct experiments on storing nuclear waste underground, making this one of Europe's few active subsurface testing laboratories. This working research focus sets it apart as more than a hiking destination and transforms it into an operational scientific center.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.