Summus Poeninus (Big St. Bernhard)

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I already described the conquest of the alps in this region in the general part.

The street across the pass was extended in the year AD 47 under Tiberius Claudius Nero Germanicus (Claudius). However, it is safe not to assume a route, but a well enlarged mule-track in the upper part of the pass street. Interesting is, that the pass was crossed by at least 3'000 soldiers in the year AD 69.

Milestone in VollègesThe street from Forum Claudii Vallensium to Sembrancher was on the left side of the river Dranse. This because of the flood. Up to here was also the route via Martigny-Bourg,Sembrancher Chemin-Dessous, Chemin and Vens possible.

At the Pont du Châtel at Orsières changed the way onto the right bank of the Milestone in Bourg-St-PierreDranse. It led via Fontaine-Dessus, Rive Haute, Liddes, Allèves, Pont de Tsarvesse to Bourg-St-Pierre. Here was presumably the last mansio on the northern side of the pass.

A sanctuary which was consecrated to Iupiter was on the pass. Wall rests let presume a mansio (inn) and a mutatio (horse relay).

The way continued to St. Rhémy, which comes possibly from Eudracinum. This was the last stop on the southern side of the pass. The further route ran approximately as the street of today to Augusta Praetoria.

Today are milestones in Vollèges and Bourg-St-Pierre visible. Furthermore some way traces of the upper pass street should be visible (coordinates 580 100/080 325).

Quick Info:

What yes/no Remark
Visible yes A milestone is before the church of Vollèges and one before the church in Bourg-St-Pierre
Informative signum no  
- with detailed information -  
- with  sketch(es) -  
Signposts no  
Shelter no  
24 hours accessible yes  
Temporarily laid open / temporarily exhibition no  
Further    

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