He Madrid Metro It is one of the most important public transport systems in all of Europe. With more than 300 kilometers of network and 12 lines, millions of Madrid residents and tourists use it every day. Since its inauguration in 1919, it has been witness and protagonist of the growth of the spanish capitaladapting to technological, social and urban changes. It is a true reflection of the city, offering those who visit it a unique experience full of stories and anecdotes.
Over the years, the metro has accumulated countless curiosities, such as the origin of some of its station names, the particularity of its design and the constant modernization process. But what stands out most about the Madrid Metro is its ability to surprise those who use it, either with unexpected encounters or with unusual situations that occur inside. THE commuter passengerscoming from the four corners of the world, make each trip a unique experience and, on many occasions, full of humor and spontaneity.
This is what an Extremadurian says about the Madrid metro
The Madrid metro is full of stories, curiosities and secrets that are part of the daily life of thousands of people. One of these details, which does not go unnoticed by users, is the colorful and sometimes strident design. wall covering at various stations. This particular design has sparked many questions and, of course, memes and jokes on social media.
One of the most famous TikTokers who has spoken out on this topic is Helio Roquewho, through his channel and in collaboration with other content creators in Madrid, revealed the reason for these striking walls. In his latest intervention for the Madrid Secreto account, the young man explains in detail that what covers the walls of many stations is not simply an aesthetic covering, but rather vitrified panels.
These panels have a very important function, since they greatly facilitate the maintenance work. The glazed surface allows for easy cleaning of stains, such as painted ones, and prevents them from sticking to the wall. In addition, its design and materials help to isolate the stations from humidity, thanks to a small space between the panels and the walls which allows the installation of a system of pipes to collect possible water infiltration.
Roque also points out that these panels, although effective, are very complicated to install. Despite their practical advantages, the tiktoker does not hesitate to point out that, aesthetically, they do not please him, comparing them to the traditional tiles of other stations which have not been renovated. With humor, he wonders why a more user-friendly aesthetic was not chosen and ends his speech by inviting his followers to give their opinion on this controversial design.
Curiosities that will surprise you
One of the particularities of the Madrid metro is the distribution of stations, which include both the deepest stations, Four paths45 meters below street level, like the highest, Aluche. This height contrast shows the great diversity of the system. In addition, Madrid’s stations run on the left, a feature inherited from the first metro line, inaugurated when the city’s streets ran on that side, following the London Underground Model.
The origin of several stations is also interesting, as in the case of Tirso de Molinawhere the human remains of monks from a former convent were found. Instead of destroying these remains, it was decided to preserve them and cover the station walls with tiles. Another shocking story is that during the civil war, the Madrid Metro not only continued to operate, but also served as a refuge from bombing, showing the importance of this means of transportation in times of crisis.
Over the years, the infrastructure has undergone significant transformations, from the design of the first stations to the integration of modern elements such as elevators, access for people with reduced mobility and cars adapted for bicycles and to dogs. The metro’s corporate image has also changed over its history, reflecting the evolution of the city.
In terms of technology, the Madrid Metro was a pioneer because it was the first fully electric systemwhich contributed to its modernization and efficiency. With more than 300 stations, it continues to be the most extensive network in Spain and one of the largest in Europe and the world, which highlights the importance of this means of transport in the daily life of Madrid residents and tourists who visit it. . They arrive in the city.
