Inaugurated on June 4, 1898, in the presence of the famous composer Giuseppe Verdi, the Montecatini funicular, made up of two carriages, connects the spa town to the picturesque medieval village of Montecatini Alto.
Originally powered by a steam boiler located at the lower station, the system was upgraded in 1921 with an electric motor to make the service more efficient and safer.
Throughout its long history, the funicular experienced several interruptions: during World War II, war damage made the line unusable until 1949, and in 1977 major technical renovations required its closure until 1982.
Today, the two iconic red carriages “Gigio” and “Gigia” travel along a route just over 1,000 meters long, with a gradient reaching up to 40%. The journey, which takes about 8 minutes, offers passengers panoramic views over the Valdinievole and the elegant architecture of the spa town.
One of the most charming moments is when the two carriages cross paths halfway up the track, a scene that fascinates both children and adults alike.
