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.