There is a metallic hum that ceased to echo years ago beneath the shade of the plane trees in the upper part of the city. An entire generation of Barcelonans has grown up without ever experiencing the swaying motion of the Tramvia Blau, that little railway that, since 1901, has woven the sentimental memories of residents and curious visitors alike on their way to Tibidabo Mountain. However, to commemorate its 125-year history, Transportes Metropolitanos de Barcelona (TMB) will once again bring this beloved heritage icon back into the spotlight.
This nostalgic event will take place on the last weekend of October, coinciding with the eve of and All Saints’ Day. During these two days, one of the classic cars will temporarily leave its storage facility to be displayed on its original route, between Plaza Kennedy and García Mariño Street, offering residents the opportunity to step aboard once more before the start of its long-awaited and complex renovation project.
When will the Tramvia Blau run in Barcelona?
On Thursday, October 31, from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and on Friday, November 1, from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., tram number 5 will be on display to the public. Although the tram will not make its traditional route—it will only move to enter and exit its underground depot—attendees will be able to ride it for free.
Inside, the charm of the early 20th century remains intact, including its distinctive, classic metal sign that reads: “Spitting prohibited.” It’s a stationary journey back to that distant October 29, 1901, the date on which this mode of transportation made its debut alongside the amusement park and the funicular.
The Future of a Symbol on Hold
The service ceased operations on January 28, 2018, for safety reasons. Since then, a “temporary closure” sign has hung in Kennedy Square. Currently, there is a municipal commitment to invest 46 million euros to revive the route.
The project, which combines transportation and urban planning, does not yet have a firm timeline or finalized bids, but it will require at least four years of construction. The project includes the restoration of four vehicles, the complete renovation of the rail infrastructure, and a comprehensive overhaul of Tibidabo Avenue.
The tribute marking the 125th anniversary will continue throughout the following month. On November 14 and 15, the depot on Bosch i Alsina Street, located beneath the Ronda de Dalt, will hold open house events to showcase the place where these gems of urban history are housed.
In addition, TMB will issue a commemorative ticket for the occasion and organize an exhibition dedicated to the history of this small railway at the Mercè Sala space, located at 243 Rosselló Street, throughout the month of November.
