Ancient Solingen's railway landmark: Steam train crossing over Münstern Bridge, after 650 years
Steam Train Round Trips to Highlight Solingen's 650th Anniversary and Müngsten Bridge's UNESCO Bid
Solingen, Germany, is gearing up for a unique celebration as the city marks its 650th anniversary under the title "SG/meinsam erleben". To add to the festivities, a series of steam train round trips will take place on June 15th and 16th, offering passengers a chance to experience the city's rich history in a truly vintage way.
The train, pulled by the 1918-built steam locomotive 38 2267, will make its rounds in the Bergisches Städtedreieck, covering Solingen, Remscheid, and Wuppertal. The departure times for the additional round trips on Sunday are 11:00 AM and 2:30 PM. Two trips each day will depart from Solingen Central Station, specifically from Platform 8 at Solingen Ohligs.
One of the highlights of these special journeys will be the crossing of the Müngsten Bridge, a testament to pioneering spirit and outstanding engineering art. The Müngsten Bridge, the highest railway bridge in Germany, is on its way to becoming a UNESCO World Heritage site, having been nominated for World Heritage status and reaching the German Tentative List. It is part of an international community of bridges in Portugal, France, and Italy, making it a significant part of a serial, transnational application for the World Heritage List, which includes "European Arch Bridges of the Late 19th Century".
The Müngsten Bridge's inclusion in this prestigious list is a testament to its historical and cultural significance. Constructed in 1896, it stands as a symbol of Germany's industrial past and its engineering prowess. The bridge's inclusion in the steam train round trips offers passengers a unique opportunity to witness this national landmark and indispensable transport link in the Bergisches Städtedreieck.
As Solingen celebrates its anniversary, the city will also host a three-day "Festival of Diversity" from August 23rd to 25th, promising a vibrant and inclusive celebration for all. The steam train specials, therefore, offer a perfect blend of history and modernity, making them an exciting addition to Solingen's anniversary celebrations.
So, whether you're a history buff, a rail enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, the steam train round trips in Solingen are not to be missed. Don't forget to mark your calendars for June 15th and 16th, and get ready to embark on a journey through time!
