Considered by CP (Portuguese Railways) “an icon of national railway history,” the “historic Christmas train,” delivered to Portugal by Germany after the First World War, will once again run on Saturdays and Sundays until January 4, between the stations of São Bento (Porto) and Ermesinde (Valongo).

Powered by steam, with Christmas decorations and lighting, locomotive 0186 transports passengers in historic carriages on a journey through time. According to CP – Portugal, this locomotive was part of a group of steam engines built by the German manufacturer Henchel & Sohn that entered service with the State Railway Company between 1924 and 1925.

“They were given to Portugal by Germany as compensation for the First World War,” explains the carrier in a statement sent to newsrooms.

They ceased to be operational in 1977, the year in which steam traction on broad track was discontinued in the country. More than two decades later, the CP 0186 steam locomotive has been restored with the aim of operating as a historic train or in special services, as is currently the case on Saturdays and Sundays during this holiday season and until January 4, 2026.

In a recent ceremony to commemorate the centenary of this train, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of CP, Pedro Moreira, highlighted its historical legacy: “This machine has spanned generations, witnessed profound changes and continues to inspire fascination and emotion.”

The Chairman of CP also emphasised the role of the company’s various teams in preserving this historic rolling stock.