In the second part of this audio series, historian Francesca Piana discusses with geneveMonde reporter David Glaser Geneva’s crucial role in the making of the tunnel. The City and Canton of Geneva played a significant role in the development of the Mont Blanc Tunnel. As early as the 1950s, they showed strong interest in the project, recognizing its potential to boost the economic and tourism networks of the Geneva region. In 1946, there was a international committee for the Mont-Blanc Tunnel in Geneva and many others after.

In 1957, when the two concessionary companies responsible for the tunnel's construction and operation were created—Société Française du Tunnel du Mont-Blanc (STMB) and Società Italiana per il Traforo del Monte Bianco (SITMB)—Geneva became a shareholder in both entities. Thus, Geneva has contributed financially and strategically to the realization and management of the Mont Blanc Tunnel, strengthening cross-border ties and facilitating exchanges between Switzerland, France, and Italy.

Francesca Piana is a historian of European and international history. Her research and teaching encompass internationalism, humanitarian aid and the mission, migration, and women/gender in 20th century Europe through a transnational, comparative, and interdisciplinary perspective.

Interview by David Glaser.

Listen to the first part of this series with Italian author Sara Loffredi.