Ouvrage Col du Granon

The military complex stands at 2,329 meters altitude with three main structures: an entry block, an infantry block, and an observation block overlooking the surrounding valleys.

Built between 1939 and 1940 as part of the Maginot Line extension, this fortification protected the Briançon region during the Italian invasion of France.

The fortification exemplifies French military engineering of the 1930s through its network of underground galleries connecting various defensive positions and observation points.

The structure contains machine gun positions with twin Reibel emplacements, concrete reinforcements, and specialized ventilation systems designed for extended military operations.

The fortress maintained a garrison of 70 soldiers from the 82nd Alpine Battalion until February 1940, when extreme weather forced most troops to evacuate.

GPS coordinates: 44.96621,6.61573

Latest update: June 23, 2025 09:59