Marzilibahn
From TrainSpottingWorld, for Rail fans everywhere
The Drahtseilbahn Marzili-Stadt Bern (short form: Marzilibahn) is a funicular in Bern, the capital of Switzerland. It leads from the Marzili quarter to the Bundehaus (parliament and federal government) in the city centre.
The Marzilibahn was built in 1885. Until 1973, a tank was filled with water from the city stream. The heavier car then pulled the other one up the slope (incl. 30 passengers). Since 1974, electric power is used.
The difference in altitude is 32 m and the route is 105 m long. This means that the Marzilibahn is the shortest public railway in Europe. Maximum speed is 3 m/s. A trip takes approx. one minute.