Ouvrage Flaut, Military fortification in Belvédère, France
Ouvrage Flaut is a military fortification in Belvédère comprising five underground combat blocks connected by galleries across the western ridge of Mount Péla. The structure extends beneath the mountain with separate residential, storage, and administrative zones integrated into the design.
The fortification was built between 1931 and 1935 and served as a defensive barrier against Italian alpine troops during World War II. It was constructed during a period of heightened French military presence along the southeastern border.
The fortification showcases French military engineering through its sophisticated underground systems housing barracks, ammunition storage, and communication centers. Visitors can observe how these facilities were designed to support soldiers' daily operations and safety.
The main entrance is at ground level, while combat blocks are accessed through specialized shafts and narrow passages. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear as the underground areas feature damp surfaces and confined spaces.
Each combat block operates with complete independence, featuring dedicated ammunition storage, rest areas, command posts, and air filtration systems. This self-contained design allowed individual blocks to function for months without external support.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
