
Witness History The Mont Blanc Tunnel
Feb 12, 2026
Franco Cuaz, Italian engineer who became the first operations manager of the Mont Blanc tunnel. He recalls the tunnel’s dramatic construction, deadly risks and the tense breakthrough when Italian and French teams met. The conversation covers harsh geology, avalanches, worker resolve, and the tunnel’s later dangers and legacy.
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Triumphant Opening After Long Struggle
- Franco Cuaz described the emotional moment when the first vehicle passed through after years of work.
- He reflected on his grandfather and the workers who died building the tunnel.
Engineering Feats Have Human Costs
- The project cost many lives and injuries, revealing the human price of grand engineering feats.
- Franco framed the tunnel as both an achievement and a reminder of those sacrifices.
Year-Round Connection Changed The Region
- The tunnel transformed year-round connectivity between France and Italy and changed local life.
- Franco emphasised it allowed travel twelve months instead of a few in winter.
