The oldest mountain railway in the world, which has been a listed building since 1975, is still in daily operation and has only required minor technical adjustments over the years. The suspension railway system, which opened in 1901, is based on the monorail principle of the Cologne engineer Eugen Langen. The two car bodies hang on one of the rails, which is supported by 33 supports, and are moved by a pull rope. The associated conveyor machine is in the mountain station. Initially powered by a compound steam engine, a direct current motor has been used since 1909.
The railway connects the Loschwitz district of Dresden with Oberloschwitz, which is 84 meters higher, over a distance of 274 meters. The journey time is 4.5 minutes.
Since 2002, a modern panoramic elevator has taken visitors to the tower above the machine house and offers a wonderful view over Dresden and the Elbe valley from the viewing platform. The railway takes a break twice a year to allow for an overhaul. Furthermore, an exhibition about the history of the railway and a café are integrated in the upper station's building.
Further information also at www.dresdner-bergbahnen.de.
