Artilleriewerk Foppa Grande, Artillery battery in Airolo, Switzerland
Artilleriewerk Foppa Grande is a military fortification on the southern side of the Gotthard Pass in southern Switzerland. The underground facility contains ammunition storage, operational rooms, and quarters that once accommodated 21 military personnel.
Constructed in 1940, the facility served with a 10.5 cm cannon to defend mountain passages. It was part of Switzerland's broader fortification system designed to monitor national borders during World War II.
This fortification represents Swiss defense strategy during the pre-war period and shows how the country aimed to protect its mountain borders. Visitors can still observe the military logic behind the positioning and alignment of all components today.
The site stands at 1,540 meters elevation and is accessible only under certain conditions and along marked paths. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and bring weather protection, as the terrain is rough and exposed.
A decoy gun turret was built 50 meters from the actual cannon position to deceive potential attackers. This deception was part of a clever defensive strategy to protect the real firing position.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
