Monument à Germain Sommeiller, Annecy Travel Guide

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A tribute to Germain Sommeiller, the Savoyard engineer who revolutionized Alpine tunnel construction. A landmark in Annecy.

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Monument à Germain Sommeiller

This monument in Annecy honors Germain Sommeiller, the engineer behind the Mont Cenis Tunnel. The statue, erected in 1884, depicts Sommeiller holding documents related to his groundbreaking project, a testament to his contribution to Alpine engineering.

A brief summary to Monument à Germain Sommeiller

Annecy, 74000, FR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Monument à Germain Sommeiller.

Take a moment to appreciate the engineering feat that Sommeiller accomplished with the Mont Cenis Tunnel.
Visit the nearby Lycée Germain Sommeiller, a vocational school named in his honor, to see another connection to the engineer.
Explore the square where the monument is located; it's a great place to relax and reflect on Annecy's history.

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Getting There

Walking

The Monument à Germain Sommeiller is located in a central area of Annecy and is easily accessible by foot from most parts of the city center. From the Hôtel de Ville (city hall), walk east along the Quai Eustache Chappuis, then turn left onto Boulevard du Lycée. The monument will be on your right in the square of May 8, 1945. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes.
Public Transport

Several bus lines serve the area around the Monument à Germain Sommeiller. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. From the Annecy train station, take bus lines 1, 4, or 9 towards the city center and get off at the 'Lycée' stop. The monument is a short walk from the bus stop. A single bus fare costs around €1.50 - €2.00.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Annecy. A taxi ride from the train station to the Monument à Germain Sommeiller typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Monument à Germain Sommeiller

The Monument à Germain Sommeiller in Annecy stands as a tribute to Germain Sommeiller (1815-1871), a Savoyard engineer renowned for his role in the construction of the Mont Cenis Tunnel. This 12-km tunnel, situated beneath the Col du Fréjus, was the first major Alpine tunnel. Sommeiller not only directed the project but also invented the compressed air drill that made the ambitious undertaking possible.The monument features a bronze statue of Sommeiller, created by sculptor Just Becquet. He is depicted standing on a pile of rocks and gears, symbolizing industry, and holding documents related to the tunnel project. The granite pedestal bears inscriptions honoring Sommeiller's achievements.Originally located on the Pâquier promenade, the monument has been moved several times. During World War II, the statue was removed and transported to Paris to be melted down, but it was found after the war in a Parisian depot. Today, the monument is located in the square of May 8, 1945. A professional high school carries his name.