This historical photograph from the Roel Dijkstra collection captures a milestone in Rotterdam’s history: the launch of the first metro line in the Netherlands. In the foreground, we see a metro train, adorned with flowers, traveling along the elevated track. This is one of the very first metro trains to operate in the city, marking a revolutionary change in Rotterdam’s infrastructure and mobility.
The Rotterdam Metro officially opened on February 9, 1968, making it the first metro system in the Netherlands. Initially, the line ran from Central Station to Zuidplein, with only a few intermediate stops. Over the years, the metro network expanded significantly, becoming one of the key transportation systems in the region.
In the background, Rotterdam’s industrial harbor landscape highlights the city’s role as an economic hub. The construction of the metro was an essential part of Rotterdam’s modernization in the post-war period, enhancing mobility and connectivity.
This fine art print is a tribute to Rotterdam’s progress and innovation. A must-have for enthusiasts of public transport, urban development, and historic moments in Dutch history.