Esseillon forts

Four forts and a redoubt protecting Savoie: a treat for lovers of fortified heritage.
Listed as Historic Monuments, the forts are named after the royal family of Piedmont-Sardinia.
Erected between 1817 and 1834 against the possible aims of France, the barrier of Esseillon is composed of 5 forts spread over the communes of Aussois and Avrieux.
The barrier of Esseillon includes 4 forts and a redoubt which bear the names of members of the Savoy family. They are built on the model of Montalembert which, contrary to Vauban's model, is based on the principle of perpendicular fortifications and cannon towers:
- Fort Victor-Emmanuel (Grand Site du Département and Site of Regional Interest, this building has been the subject of a major restoration programme.
- Fort Charles-Albert (only two small garrison buildings and the base of a tower remain of this building)
- Fort Charles-Felix (destroyed on the orders of Napoleon III, when Savoy became part of France in 1860. Visiting the building is not recommended as it is dangerous. Romantic, the fort is nevertheless admirable from the road).
- Fort Marie-Christine (Cultural Centre, gîte d'étape, restaurant, and gateway to the Vanoise National Park, places to visit and occasional activities).
- Marie-Thérèse Redoubt (Interpretation Centre of the Fortified Heritage)