Origin of the "montagne russe"

Roller coasters originated in Russia in the 17th century. They were ice tracks for sleds built on hills or wooden structures. That's why in many Roman languages they are:

• ITA: Montagne russe
• ESP: Montaña rusa
• FRA: Montagnes russes
• PORT: Montanha russa

But in Russia..well, they say American Mountains!