First Passenger Train Service in Belgium

On May 26, 1830, the first passenger train in continental Europe departed Brussels for Mechelen on the Brussels-Mechelen line, hauled by the steam locomotive 'La Belgique'. This 22 km route was engineered under the direction of Pierre Simons and featured early wrought-iron rails. The opening symbolized Belgium's rapid industrialization following independence and inspired further expansions across Europe. The line later became part of the Belgian State Railways and demonstrated the viability of steam traction for public transport, influencing designs for subsequent networks in France and Germany.