The Historic Preservation Authority of the Canton of Bern has granted cultural heritage status to the city’s iconic steam tram, which is over 130 years old. It is the first vehicle of its kind in Switzerland to receive such protected status. Following a complete restoration, the tram has now been returned to service.
The steam tram operated in the city of Bern from 1894 to 1902. Its designation as a protected monument recognizes the exceptional historical, cultural, and technical significance of the vehicle, said the Bernmobil Historical Foundation, which operates the tram, on Monday.
“It is a great honor that ‘our’ steam tram is the first of its kind in Switzerland to receive heritage protection, and at the same time it is a clear mandate,” said Corinne Ribeli, chair of the foundation’s board of trustees, according to swissinfo, reported by albinfo.ch.
The classification followed a one-year overhaul of the 132-year-old steam locomotive engine. Volunteers from the foundation carried out the work, while individual components were restored by the Rhaetian Railway workshop. The foundation operates the steam tram in Bern as part of public transport services and for special events.
It can also be reserved for private rides.
The foundation says it is committed to preserving and operating historic public transport vehicles in Bern. Its collection includes around ten trams and ten old buses.
