From the hum of the motor to the clatter of the tracks, people connect Helsinki’s trams with modern daily life and historical memories. This mode of transport will play a central role in the future of the capital and other cities in Finland.
The tram doors slide open and I step aboard the number two, leaving the damp autumn air behind. Inside, the soft murmur of conversation mixes with shoes squeaking on wet rubber. Teenagers pile into the booth next to me, laughing and joking, as the tram eases forward.
The motor hums steadily. Wheels clatter as we traverse a junction. The seat opposite is patterned with a stylised map of the tram network, red lines tracing across grey fabric. Overhead, a screen flickers with weather updates and ads for seasonal fashion.
These sights and sounds are ordinary, yet they hold a nostalgic pull for me and many others in the city.
Stepping into history
Helsinki’s first trams, introduced in 1891, were pulled by horses along just two short lines. Though slow and expensive to operate, these wooden carriages marked the beginning of the city’s journey on rails.Photo: Karl Mitterhusen / Helsinki City Museum
That thought stays with me as I make my way to the Töölö neighbourhood and step into the Tram Museum, housed in a former depot built in 1900. On this particular Saturday, the museum is alive with its annual Tramtastic! family event.
Children dance on stage to cheerful music. Families crowd around craft tables where kids can design their own tram colour schemes in bright crayon shades. Little feet clatter up and down the steps of historic carriages.
Source: finland.fi
