Wars and mysteries in the prison of the Iron Mask

The Exilles Fort is one of the most ancient monuments in the Susa Valley. Its origins are uncertain but around 1115 its existence was already documented. Its history is marked by battles for its dominion. Possessing it meant having both commercial and military control on the road over the Montgenèvre.

At the start of the seventeenth century the fort changed its set up as an old castle and became a ramparted stronghold, which hosted the mysterious "man in the Iron Mask" from 1681 to 1687.

Who was he? Still today the mystery is unsolved. It is presumed however that he was such an important person that Louis XIV, "Sun King", could not order his killing. At the same time his existence had to be kept completely secret. An illegitimate son from a secret union with an influential figure from a foreign power?

The fact remains that his identity was cancelled: his face was covered by wrapping it in a mask made from strips of steel. His life was spent in one prison or another all round the kingdom. Even reaching Exilles.

Razed to the round by the French following the Treaty of Paris on 15th May 1796, the Fort was rebuilt as we see it today between 1818 and 1829 by the King of Sardinia. Today the Fort is under the responsibility of the Piedmont Regional Authority and the National Museum of the Mountain CAI-Turin who look after its use and promotion. From the Bokki Camping site it can be reached in 30 minutes by car or train.