Gap

Gap stands among the southern Alps, where roads from Grenoble and Provence meet. Its position brought travellers and trade but also exposed the bishop's town to armies crossing the mountains. In 1692 Victor Amadeus of Savoy led an invasion of upper Dauphiné, taking Guillestre, Embrun and Gap. The town was burned during the campaign, yet its place at an Alpine crossroads ensured its recovery after the invaders withdrew.