Mezzana
The history of the Trento-Malé-Mezzana Railway
The Trento-Malé-Mezzana Railway, affectionately called "Vaca Nonesa", is a railway line connecting the city of Trento with Mezzana, passing through Malé, the main town of Val di Sole.
Its history dates back to 1909, when the Trento-Malé tramway was inaugurated, inherited from the previous management by the Ferrovia Locale Trento-Malé company. After various events related to the scarcity of funds, the railway section connecting these two locations was opened in 1961.
In 1964, the new Trento Porta Centa station was inaugurated, replacing the old tramway terminus, and new electric motorcars were introduced by Officine Meccaniche della Stanga. In 1987, the Trento-Malé Electric Railway obtained a funding of 60 billion Lire, which were used for the construction of a new Trento FTM station and the extension from Malé to Fucine (Ossana).
In 2002, the FTM company was incorporated into Trentino Trasporti (TT), and in 2003 the extension to the tourist resort of Marilleva was opened. In 2005, work began on burying the railway line between Lavis station and Zambana halt in order to allow the strengthening of the road network to the north of Lavis.
The route of the Trento-Malé-Mezzana Railway
The Trento-Malé-Mezzana Railway has a picturesque route that crosses the Piana Rotaliana, Val di Non and Val di Sole, bordering the Noce river in many sections.
Starting from Trento next to the station, the railway arrives in Mezzana with a stop in Malé, the capital of Val di Sole, where you can visit the Civic Tower.
At the Daolasa station, there is an interchange with the fearless Daolasa-Val Mastellina cableway, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. Instead, at Marilleva station, there is an interchange with the cableway that leads to the Folgarida-Marilleva ski area.
The service
The service of the Trento-Malé-Mezzana Railway is provided by Trentino Trasporti Esercizio, part of Trentino Trasporti, which manages the infrastructure.
The railway, which uses an electric traction and a meter gauge, is always punctual and guarantees a quality service, ideal for those who want to visit Val di Sole in an eco-friendly way.
Conclusions
The Trento-Malé-Mezzana Railway, known as "Vaca Nonesa", is part of the history and identity of Trentino-Alto Adige. Thanks to the connection between Trento and Mezzana, crossing Val di Sole, it is possible to discover and appreciate the beauty of the places, in a comfortable and convenient way.
The route of the railway, bordered by the Noce river, gives unique emotions, especially during autumn and winter seasons. Moreover, the interchange with the two cableways represents an excellent way to access the ski areas in the area.
In conclusion, the Trento-Malé-Mezzana Railway represents a unique and charming way to discover Val di Sole and its beauties, immersing yourself in unspoiled and authentic nature.
