Pelion Train: The history behind the restoration of the historic railway

The historic Pelion train, known as ‘Mounzouris’, has a legacy dating back to 1903. Originally a vital transport link for local residents, its operations were discontinued in 1971 before it was eventually restored to service in 1996.

Maria Savvaidi-Polyzo, who served as a department head at the European Commission's Regional Fund in Brussels during the 1980s, has shared details regarding the train's revival. She noted that the restoration was not initially included in the Mediterranean Integrated Program for Thessaly. Savvaidi-Polyzo intervened to request a revision of the program, ensuring that the necessary works for the historical railway were included and funded through European resources.

The 15-kilometer route runs from Ano Lechonia to Milies. While it now serves primarily as a tourist attraction preserving the region's cultural heritage, its return to the tracks was made possible through the integration of European funding and developmental interventions.