90 years Núria Rack Railway

On March 22, 1931, the Rack Railway de Núria was inaugurated, a railway with exceptional technical characteristics that soon became a benchmark among mountain railways throughout Europe.

The increase in pilgrims visiting the Sanctuary of Núria and the growth of winter sports had highlighted the need for a means of transport to reach the Vall de Núria, until then only accessible on foot. The inauguration was initially to have king Alfons XIII, who was unable to attend due to political instability that culminated in his exile and the proclamation of the Second Republic.

Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC) took over its management in 1986, which led to an extensive modernization process that involved the arrival of new rolling stock and the modernization of the facilities. Four new automobiles were put into service, locomotives and passenger cars were modernized, workshops were built and tracks were replaced.

Years later, the new Ribes-Enllaç depot was built, the Queralbs station was remodeled, the new Roc del Dui tunnel came into service and new cars were acquired.

SYNOPSIS:

This book shows the route of the Rack Raiway de Núria. Since its construction in 1930, when the rise of the Vall de Núria required a means of transport to access this unique space, and until the arrival of FGC to take care of its management.

The characteristics of its engine and mobile equipment, the H12 hybrid locomotive and the Matterhorn Swiss passenger cars are also detailed. As well as the modernization process of Vall de Núria and the BEH 4/8 motor vehicles.

YEAR EDITION:

2020