The fascinating history of the Paris Métro: A century underground!

The fascinating history of the Paris Métro: A century underground!

Paris, the city of lights, not only has to contend with its romantic flair, but also with a very special means of transport: the metro. Although today it is known for its cleanliness and efficiency, its origins were a rocky road. This July 19, 2025, we celebrate the 125th anniversary of the first line, which opened on July 19, 1900. This fascinating journey began with a vision born out of necessity. WDR reports that Paris urgently needed a solution to transport the masses of visitors in the run-up to the 1900 World's Fair.

A master of his craft was the engineer Fulgence Bienvenüe, who was responsible for the construction of the Métro. Born on January 27, 1852 in Brittany, he was considered the “father of the metro” and revolutionized tunnel construction in Paris. His innovative method of freezing wet ground made it possible to build in difficult conditions, thereby quickly restoring the road surface. Bienvenüe was appointed chief engineer of the Paris Métro in 1896 and was one of those who fought stubbornly to bypass the state railway in order to realize the Métro independently.

The first line and its growth

With approval to begin construction in March 1898, Bienvenüe and his team got started quickly. Two years later, the first line, which ran 10 kilometers from Porte Maillot to Porte de Vincennes, was already operational. After just ten years, the Métro's basic network had expanded to an impressive 65 kilometers. A true masterpiece that still serves as the foundation for the mobility of Parisians today.

The decision to rely on underground solutions instead of elevated railway lines was a groundbreaking one that not only thrilled contemporaries. In fact, Victor Hugo was a prominent supporter of the idea of ​​not having elevated railways running through the city, which was often considered unattractive. The Métro, however, brought a whole new dimension to the urban infrastructure.

Modern use of the metro

Today, the Paris Métro has become one of the most efficient and user-friendly transportation systems. The stations are identified by distinctive red signs and offer both ticket machines and staff for easy ticket processing. Single ticket and tourist ticket holders use a magnetic system that allows for easy boarding.

• Einzelticket für Métro und RER: 2,50 €
• Paris Visite Ticket für Touristen:
• 1 Tag: 29,90 €
• 2 Tage: 44,45 €
• 3 Tage: 62,30 €
• 5 Tage: 76,25 € (50% Rabatt für Kinder unter 10 Jahren)

The Métro runs daily from 5:20 a.m. to 12:20 a.m. and has waiting times of just 2-5 minutes during the day. However, despite their popularity, there are also challenges; Some of the station infrastructure is not barrier-free and only line 14 offers elevators. If you use a wheelchair, it is better to use alternative means of transport such as buses.

With its rich history and modern use, the Paris Métro remains the backbone of mobility in the city. Bienvenüe's lessons from the past and innovations continue to ensure that millions of people can explore the city comfortably and quickly. His work is also recognized posthumously with the name of the station Avenue du Maine, which was renamed Bienvenüe in 1933.

The Paris Métro is not just a means of transport, but an important piece of history that fascinates and connects every generation anew. This impressive network of subway lines will continue to grow and thrive in the future.

For more information about the Métro in Paris and the history of Bienvenüe, you can visit the articles from WDR, Wikipedia and France-Trip: WDR, Wikipedia, France trip.