With the contribution of the LIFE programme of the European Union - LIFE14 ENV/GR/000611
Vindobona - legendary European express – started operation 60 years ago
Sixty years ago, on 13th January 1957, the legendary Vindobona train linking Berlin, Prague and Vienna rode for the first time. In regular operation Vindobona appeared with a new timetable at the beginning of the summer of 1957. At that time, Vindobona was one of the most luxurious and fastest trains in Eastern Europe, and it was different from the other classic steam trains as it was operated by an elegant motor unit. The first journey for journalists was to introduce the new, fast and convenient train connections to the general public, the elegant aerodynamic shape of the motor units symbolized this legend until 1979, and during each of their journeys, they attracted the attention of passers-by, passengers and railway employees.
Vindobona has been one of the fastest trains in Eastern Europe since the beginning of its operations, although today's travel times may seem ridiculously long. Compared to regular trains, however, the Express was tens of minutes faster, at the beginning of the operation shortened the journey from Berlin to Vienna for 12 hours and 15 minutes, which was six hours less than the fastest connection ever. The route between Prague and Berlin was offended in less than 6 hours, almost an hour faster than the current fastest train.
The legendary Berlin-Prague-Vienna train was named from the beginning after the Latin name of Vienna city - Vindobona.
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The LIFE GYM [LIFE14 ENV/GR/000611] project is co-funded by the LIFE programme, the EU financial instrument for the environment.
The sole responsibility for the content of this report lies with the authors. It does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the European Union. Neither the EASME nor the European Commission are responsible for any use that may be made of the information contained therein.
Start Date: 15 September 2015 – Duration: 35 months
