The Buštěhrad railway and its contribution to the development of the Žatec region

The Buštěhrad railway, operational since 1845, played a pivotal role in the rapid industrialization of the Žatec region by connecting two major coal mines (Kladno and Sokolov) and facilitating the transport of raw materials. This study highlights its significance as one of the first narrow-gauge railways in Central Europe, operated by the Buštěhrad Railway Company, which later became a key part of the Czech railway network. The research delves into the historical impact of this railway on regional development, including its contribution to urban growth and integration with international rail networks. By analyzing archival data, the authors reconstruct the railway's operational history and its lasting influence on the landscape of Žatec, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dvořáková, E., & Borovcová, A. (2024). The Buštěhrad railway and its contribution to the development of the Žatec region. Zprávy Památkové Péče, 84(1), 43–55. https://doi.org/10.56112/zpp.2024.1.04