Opening of the Tünel in Istanbul

In the late 19th century, as the Ottoman Empire modernized under Sultan Abdulaziz, Istanbul's steep hills posed a challenge for efficient urban transport. Engineer Henri Gavand proposed an underground funicular railway to connect the bustling Galata district with the rest of the city, addressing the need for quicker movement of people and goods. Construction began in 1871, overcoming engineering hurdles like tunneling through unstable soil using basic steam-powered drills. The Tünel opened on February 25, 1875, after just four years of work, operated by the Tünel Şirketi. This event was pivotal in railroad history, as it demonstrated the feasibility of subterranean rail for urban areas, inspiring similar systems worldwide, including early subways in London and New York. Key figures included Gavand and Ottoman officials who saw it as a symbol of progress. For railroad enthusiasts, the Tünel's use of funicular technology and its preservation as a heritage site highlight the evolution from horse-drawn to electric rail, with lasting impacts on modern metro networks and urban planning.