Napoleon visits Mer de Glace

No, not another celebrity spotting but the anniversary of an historic visit to one of Chamonix's most popular attractions. 150 years ago this year the Savoy region was handed back to France by the Italians, having previously been part of Sardinia.

Emperor Napoleon III then made a visit to check out his new territory, stopping in Chamonix on 3rd September to see the Mer de Glace, buy a whistling marmot and have his photo taken by the Saussure statue in front of the Terrasse.

The Musée Alpin is currently showing an exhibition of paintings, engravings and documents relating to the annexation of the Savoy to France. It will be on display until 3rd October, open daily from 2pm to 7pm.

Source : Radio Mont Blanc