The early history of the Simplon Pass is involved in much obscurity, and
nothing certain is known even of the origin of its name. It was under
Napoleon’s orders that the present road was constructed.
The new Simplon Road was, in its intention and execution, a military
work. It was determined upon immediately after the battle of Marengo,
whilst the difficulties of the passage of the Great St. Bernard, and the
almost fatal check received at Fort Bard were fresh in the recollection
of Napoleon. It was executed between 1800 and 1807, under the direction
of M. Ceard, the engineer-in-chief of the department of Leman, by whom
the road was begun and completed. It now stands as one of the most
extraordinary and daring achievements of man.
[Illustration: THE SIMPLON PASS.]