The Mont Blanc Tunnel is a road tunnel that connects France and Italy beneath the Mont Blanc mountain. Opened in 1965, it spans approximately 11.6 kilometers (7.2 miles) and serves as a vital transportation route for vehicles traveling between the two countries. The tunnel is part of the European road network and significantly reduces travel time across the mountainous region. Constructed through challenging geological conditions, the tunnel was a major engineering achievement of its time. It is named after Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps, which stands at 4,808 meters (15,774 feet). The tunnel has undergone various safety upgrades since its opening, especially after a tragic fire in 1999.