Ionian Railway


The Ionian Railway is an Italian long railway line that connects Taranto, with Sibari, Crotone and Reggio Calabria. The route operates through the regions of Apulia, Basilicata and Calabria. The route largely follows the coast of the Ionian Sea.

History

The line was opened in stages between 1866 and 1875.
DateSection
3 June 1866Reggio Calabria - Lazzaro
1 October 1868Lazzaro - Bianco
28 February 1869Taranto – Marconia
18 August 1869Marconia – Trebisacce
6 March 1870Trebisacce – Rossano
16 June 1870Rossano – Cariati
1 February 1871Bianco – Roccella Jonica
1 June 1874Cariati – Crotone
20 May 1875Catanzaro Lido – Monasterace
15 November 1875Crotone – Catanzaro Lido

Developments

On 13 November 1989 the line between Taranto and Sibari was electrified. The line has also been electrified between Melito di Porto Salvo and Reggio Calabria to allow for the operation of a suburban service.
On 12 December 2010 Gabella Grande, Isola Capo Rizzuto, Marconia, San Leonardo di Cutro and Thurio stations were downgraded to halts. On the same date O.G.R di Saline Joniche, Pietrapaola and San Sosthenes stations closed.
On 21 February 2013 the station serving Reggio Calabria Airport opened, linking it to the city. On 9 June 2013 the station Melito di Porto Salvo opened in Annà.

Usage

The line is used by the following service: