Martina Franca
The Bari-Martina Franca-Taranto railway: a history of over a century
The Bari-Martina Franca-Taranto railway is one of the most important railway lines in the Puglia region, connecting two important provincial capitals. Its history dates back to 1868, when engineer Michele Lofoco first presented a project for a railway to serve the hinterland of Bari. Over the years, several projects were proposed, and in 1896, the British company The Subventioned Railways Corporation Ltd. obtained approval for the concession to build and manage the Bari-Locorotondo railway, with branches Capurso-Putignano.
The project was subsequently revised and, after many difficulties, the first section between Bari and Putignano opened in 1900, while the one between Putignano and Locorotondo opened in 1903. Over the years, the company that managed the railway went from bankruptcy administration to the Anonymous Company of Subsidized Railways until in 1919, the majority share package was purchased by the Italian Bank of Discount and then by lawyer Ugo Pasquini.
The current line
Today, the Bari-Martina Franca-Taranto railway is managed by the Ferrovie del Sud Est (FSE) and is indicated as "Line 1." Its current route runs between Bari Centrale station and Taranto station, passing through Putignano and Martina Franca. The railway service is generally operated on the railway sections Bari Centrale station-Martina Franca station and Martina Franca-Taranto station.
Characteristics of the railway line
The Bari-Martina Franca-Taranto railway is about 107 km long and has numerous stations along the way. Starting from Bari, the line winds through the suggestive landscape of the Puglia hinterland until reaching Martina Franca, and then continues to Taranto. The railway line was built with steam traction, but was later electrified. Its management is entrusted to Ferrovie del Sud Est (FSE), an important Italian railway company.
The advantage of the railway
The Bari-Martina Franca-Taranto railway represents an important transport system for anyone who wants to travel through Puglia. Its presence guarantees a quick and safe connection between Bari and Taranto, two important centers of tourist and cultural interest in the region. Thanks to its length, the railway allows reaching many Puglia municipalities, offering a valid and sustainable alternative to road transport.
In addition, the railway represents an important resource for the region since it guarantees an important job opportunity for residents of the many municipalities served by the line. The staff operating on the railway ensures an always efficient and quality service, guaranteeing the satisfaction of passengers who choose this form of transport.
The future of the railway
Despite its long history and importance, the Bari-Martina Franca-Taranto railway has faced numerous difficulties over the years, both economically and organizationally. However, the Ferrovie del Sud Est has promised significant investments to improve the quality of the service offered to passengers, with maintenance interventions and expansion of the infrastructure.
The future of the Bari-Martina Franca-Taranto railway depends on the constant attention and investments from the competent authorities. Thanks to its importance and history, the railway represents an important resource for the region and deserves to be supported and developed to ensure a better and more accessible service for the citizens who use it.
