Museo del Vallo Alpino

The Alpine Wall Museum — Second World War 1940

Explore the Museum

Step Inside an Authentic Italian WWII Bunker

Hidden beneath Vievola, near Tende and the Col de Tende, the Museo del Vallo Alpino occupies Opera 261, an authentic Italian bunker built before the Second World War. Its galleries, combat positions and living quarters have been meticulously restored with original weapons, uniforms and military equipment.

The Battles of the Western Alps

WolfTrails specialises in the military history of the Western Alps, leading visitors through the battlefields, fortifications and forgotten strategic sites connected to these events. From 10 to 25 June 1940, Italian and French forces fought across a heavily fortified frontier shaped by the Alpine Wall and Alpine Maginot Line. War returned in 1944–45, culminating locally in the fierce Battle of Authion.

Inside the main chamber of Museo Vallo Alpino di Vievola
Fiat 14/35 heavy machine gun at Museo Vallo Alpino Vievola

Opera 261 — From Ruin to Museum


Opera 261 was the largest bunker in the Vievola defensive barrier, armed with two machine guns and an anti-tank cannon to protect the strategic Col de Tende route. Once abandoned and filled with waste, it has been meticulously restored as a fully equipped museum. As a long-standing ASVAL volunteer, WolfTrails founder Roberto Maselli can also personally guide your group inside the museum.

ASVAL — Preserving Alpine History

Founded in 1992, ASVAL studies, preserves and promotes the Western Alpine Wall, the Alpine Maginot Line and the region’s Second World War history. Its research focuses on fortification technology, weapons, military operations and the logistical organisation that allowed soldiers to live and fight across the fortified Alps.

Roberto Maselli, owner and guide of WolfTrails transportin a Breda 1937 heavy machine gun at Museo Vallo Alpino di Vievola

Private Visits to the Museo del Vallo Alpino

The museum opens to the public on selected dates during the year. By prior arrangement, WolfTrails groups can also experience an exclusive private opening, accompanied by members of ASVAL who know the bunker, its equipment and its history in exceptional detail.

Private visits can be included in selected MTB, e-MTB, trekking and historical tours through the Col de Tende and Roya Valley, subject to the museum’s availability.

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Museum Visits F.A.Q.

Why is an Italian bunker located in France?

When Opera 261 was built, Vievola, Tende and La Brigue were part of Italy. Following the 1947 Paris Peace Treaty, the international border was moved and these territories became part of France, leaving several Italian Alpine Wall fortifications on French territory.

How long does a visit to Opera 261 take?

A complete guided visit generally takes around one hour. The duration may vary depending on the group’s interests and the level of historical or technical detail requested.

Is the museum suitable for children?

Children can visit the museum when accompanied by an adult. The underground environment, original military equipment and narrow passages require appropriate supervision throughout the visit.

Is the bunker accessible to everyone?

No. Opera 261 is an authentic underground military structure with steps, narrow passages and confined spaces. It is therefore not accessible or suitable for visitors with reduced mobility.

Are the weapons and ammunition inside the museum original?

The museum contains an exceptional collection of original period equipment, including weapons, uniforms, ammunition, technical installations and everyday military objects. All weapons and ammunition displayed inside the museum are preserved exclusively for historical and educational purposes.

Can photography be taken inside the museum?

No. Photography and video recording are prohibited inside the museum. The displays and museum spaces are protected by rights held by ASVAL and the Département des Alpes-Maritimes. Requests for professional, editorial, educational or documentary use are evaluated individually and require prior authorisation.

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