In 1897 the Italians began building the railway to connect the Red Sea city of Massawa with Asmara, located at an altitude of 2,400 m. To overcome the steep gradients, 20 viaducts, 65 bridges and 30 tunnels had to be built. In the Seventies the railway was dismantled and rails and sleepers were used to build bunkers and trenches. After the liberation, the old railwaymen tried to reopen their beloved railway, which had become a symbol of national pride. Thanks to a huge collective effort, the tracks were repositioned and 4 vintage steam locomotives made serviceable, as well as the famous 1935 Fiat Littorina. As a result, it's now possible to travel on board the old train, but the government is planning to reuse the railway for the transport of goods from the port of Massawa to the capital.
