A very special celebration is coming up for Wuppertal next year: the Wuppertal Suspension Railway turns 125 years old! Since its official opening on March 1, 1901, the world-famous monorail has shaped not only the cityscape but also the daily lives and memories of generations of Wuppertal residents.
To mark this milestone, the Wuppertaler Stadtwerke (WSW) are inviting everyone to share their most memorable suspension railway moments — to preserve a living piece of city history.
From the Emperor’s Carriage to a Cultural Icon
The story of the suspension railway began with a royal journey: on October 24, 1900, Emperor Wilhelm II and his wife Auguste Viktoria took the first trial ride — the legendary “Kaiserfahrt.” The specially designed carriage was later named the Kaiserwagen, which remains one of Wuppertal’s most iconic attractions to this day.
Just a few months later, on March 1, 1901, regular operations began. Since then, the blue carriages have glided over the Wupper River every day, becoming a beloved symbol of Wuppertal and a witness to countless personal stories — from childhood adventures to romantic moments high above the city.
WSW Is Looking for 125 Personal Suspension Railway Stories
To celebrate the 125th anniversary, WSW is calling on all Wuppertal residents to share their funniest, most touching, or most unusual memories of the suspension railway.
A total of 125 personal stories will be selected and presented in a special exhibition during the anniversary year 2026.
Whether it’s a childhood memory, a funny incident on the way to work, or a heartwarming experience — every story counts. Photos can also be submitted along with your story. 👉 Submit your contribution online at: www.wsw-online.de/mobilitaet/schwebebahn/schwebebahn-geschichten/
A Year Dedicated to the Suspension Railway
The storytelling project is just one part of a year-long celebration. Throughout 2026, WSW will organize numerous activities, events, and campaigns dedicated to the suspension railway — including a special commemorative stamp and several city-wide festivities.
125 years of the Suspension Railway is more than just an anniversary — it’s an opportunity to honor Wuppertal’s history and celebrate the connection between innovation, identity, and everyday life.