Interesting!
Thanks David!
I’m upset at myself. We spent a day at the Vatican two years ago, and I didn’t know this was there. I didn’t see any of it. Of course, there’s so much to see there I didn’t see a lot of the other stuff, either. I’m surprised I didn’t see the tracks from the roof of St. Peters.
Sure enough! Here’s a photo we took from the top of the dome at St. Peters, and there’s the train station. I didn’t even know it was there!
Pope Pius IX’s Train:
This refers to the train used by Pope Pius IX (1846-1878) for his travels within the Papal States.
First Locomotive to transport was a Planet-type .
Line
March 1932 to present
Standard guage
Line length: 0.68 kilometres (0.42 mi)
Track length: 1.19 kilometres (0.74 mi)
Locomotive FS Class ETR 252 Arlecchino “the Harlequin” Rapid Electric Train rebuilt in 2016
Three Carriages:
Built 1859 Maiden Journey 3 July 1859 from Porta Maggiore Station to Cecchinia
The train consisted of three carriages, each designed for a specific purpose:
Balconata: An open-air carriage with a balcony for delivering blessings and addressing crowds.
Throne Room: A closed carriage with a throne for receiving guests and conducting meetings.
Chapel Carriage: A carriage used for celebrating Mass.
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Historical Significance:
The train is a significant historical artifact, showcasing the early use of railroads by the Papacy and the luxurious travel accommodations of the time. -
Current Location:
The train is now on display at the Museum of Rome
Vatican Railway - Wikipedia.
Planet 2-2-0 Liverpool & Manchester Railway – Preserved British Steam Locomotives
Engraving showing the 'Northumbrian' and the 'Planet', two... News Photo - Getty Images
This interesting why they built it and the history of the Vatican and treaty that created Vatican City and led to the railway is also interesting.