Tauern Railway Tunnel

The Tauern Railway Tunnel runs for over eight kilometres through the High Tauern range. Its northern mouth opens in the valley of Bad Gastein, Salzburg, while the southern end lies near Mallnitz in Carinthia. The tunnel reaches 1,226 metres above sea level, making it the highest point on the entire railway line. Built to connect industrial northern Austria with the Adriatic port of Trieste, the project was first discussed in the late 19th century. Excavation began in 1902 under engineer Karl Wurmb, using mainly Italian labourers. By 1906 the bore was complete, though the official opening came three years later with Emperor Francis Joseph in attendance. The tunnel’s history includes the long-running Autoschleuse car-shuttle service, launched during the First World War. This special train carries road vehicles—from cars to lorries—between the two sides of the mountain. In 1947 a bomb placed under a British military train near the tunnel injured one soldier; the Irgun group later claimed responsibility. Between 2000 and 2004 the tunnel was renovated, shortening its length by 179 metres and relocating the northern entrance. The old portal remains as a memorial arch, while new rails, power lines and fire systems were installed. Visitors do not enter the tunnel itself, but the surrounding railway line offers dramatic Alpine scenery. The valley at Bad Gastein is known for its hot springs and grand Belle Époque hotels. Trains crossing the Tauern climb steadily through pine forests before emerging into the high valley near Mallnitz. The route remains an important link for both passengers and freight, carrying goods between northern Europe and the Adriatic.