On June 10, Barcelona commemorated the centenary of the Transversal Metro, a line that has been overshadowed by other historical events, such as the death of Antoni Gaudí. Despite the media attention focused on the legacy of the famous architect, this anniversary marks an important milestone in the history of public transport in the city.
A significant anniversary
At 11 a.m., local authorities and representatives of Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB) gathered at the Plaça Catalunya station to celebrate this event. The inauguration of the Transversal Metro took place in 1926, on the very same day that Gaudí suffered a tragic accident. This fact has led many to forget the historical and functional importance that this line has had for the people of Barcelona.
The Transversal Metro was designed to facilitate movement beneath the Gran Via and connect various railway lines. With an initial route from Catalunya to Bordeta, it had nine stations: Bordeta, Mercat Nou, Plaça de Sants, Hostafrancs, España, Rocafort, Urgell, and Universitat.
On the occasion of the centenary, TMB launched a series of digital initiatives. Historical photographs were published on their website and advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence were used to recreate key moments from the metro's past. This strategy aims not only to honour its history but also to attract new generations to learn about Barcelona's public transport.
“It is essential to remember our roots while looking towards the future,” stated a TMB spokesperson during the celebrations.
Despite its operational success over the years, the history of the Transversal Metro is not without tragedies. In April 1924, one of the worst accidents in the construction of the metro occurred when 11 workers lost their lives due to a collapse. This tragic event underscores the risks associated with public works and has remained etched in collective memory without any monument to commemorate the victims.
Over time, the Transversal Metro has evolved alongside Barcelona. Its integration into the current system as a fundamental part of metropolitan transport reflects how infrastructures can adapt to the changing needs of a dynamic city. Continuous financial support from the City Council has allowed for maintaining affordable fares for users.
“The city council has always played a crucial role in subsidising tickets,” explained Ferran Armengol, an urban transport expert and president of the Coordinadora pro Museu del Transport.
As Barcelona moves towards a more sustainable and interconnected future, it is essential to remember how its old systems have laid the groundwork for modern innovations. The upcoming opening of the Santa Eulàlia workshop is another step forward to ensure that the service continues to be efficient and safe.
TMB also has ambitious plans to further modernise its services and integrate new technologies that will make urban travel even easier.
The centenary celebration is not only an opportunity to reflect on what has been achieved so far but also on how to continue building a more accessible and inclusive city through its public transport network.
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