A Tram Named Desire: Trieste’s Opicina Line Rolls Back into Service After Eight-Year Pause

After an eight-year suspension following an accident in 2016, the historic Opicina Tramway resumed service on Saturday, February 1. The reopening marks a significant milestone for the city’s public transportation network, bringing back a beloved connection between Trieste and the hilltop village of Opicina. During the initial 15-day period, the service will operate with a single tramcar, running 19 daily trips between Piazza Dalmazia and Opicina. Full service is expected to be gradually restored in the coming weeks as additional tramcars are brought into operation. The return of the tram was met with enthusiasm, particularly in Opicina, where an early morning departure was accompanied by an impromptu musical tribute. Local residents gathered with instruments to perform a traditional anthem dedicated to the tramway, underscoring its cultural significance to the community. For the time being, all trips will begin and end at Piazza Dalmazia, rather than extending to Piazza Oberdan in Trieste, as was previously the case. Authorities have cited ongoing technical upgrades as the reason for the modified route. A phased plan has been set in place to progressively increase the frequency of service. Between February 1 and 16, the tram will operate 19 daily trips with a single vehicle. From February 17 to March 2, the number of trips will increase to 39 with the addition of a second tramcar. Full service is expected to resume on March 3, with three tramcars in operation providing 58 daily trips. Local officials have emphasized the importance of modernizing the tramway while preserving its historic character. The ongoing installation of new braking systems is among the final steps in ensuring the service meets current safety standards. The Opicina Tramway, first inaugurated in 1902, is one of the few remaining hybrid funicular tramways in Europe, offering both public transportation and a scenic experience for visitors. Its return has been widely welcomed, with many viewing it as a symbol of Trieste’s rich heritage and resilience.