Costing €480 million and with a capacity for 57.000 passengers per week, the futuristic new train station in Mons connects five European countries and promises to transform mobility with an innovative design and full accessibility.
The new Mons station in Belgium is a new infrastructure that is redefining European rail transport. Costing an impressive €480 million, the train station combines innovative design and accessibility, positioning itself as an international mobility hub.
But what makes this station so special? In addition to its breathtaking architecture, it reflects Belgium’s commitment to lead the transport railway on the continent.
History and transformations of Mons Station
The history of Mons station is marked by major transformations. It all began in 1841, as part of the Midi line, connecting Brussels to France. Since then, it has undergone four reconstructions. The most notable was in 1952, after the destruction of the second station during the Second World War.
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In 2013, the ambitious modernization project began, culminating in the current work, which combines history and innovation.
Renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava led the design, creating a structure that is not only beautiful but also functional. With an integrated walkway and five covered platforms, the station offers a barrier-free experience that is accessible to all.
Structure and features of the new train station
The train station connects more than 57.000 passengers weekly and operates 189 trains per day. Thanks to its strategic location, travelers have easy access to countries such as Germany, France, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.
Modern equipment, such as 12 elevators and pedometers for the visually impaired, ensure accessibility. There are parking spaces for cars, 350 spaces for bicycles and a retail area with 14 shops, making the station a real city within Mons.
Increase in passenger numbers and economic benefits
In 2023, more than 244 million people traveled by train in Belgium, and the new station is expected to increase this number even further. With this infrastructure, Mons becomes a transport hub, attracting investment and boosting local tourism.
Modernization impacts not only Mons, but the entire region. Improved connectivity facilitates business, travel and cultural interaction between neighboring countries.
Mons in Lumières: The official inauguration
The station is already in operation, but the official inauguration is scheduled for January 31, 2025, during the “Mons en Lumières” festival. It will be an event that promises to highlight the station as an architectural and cultural icon.
The new Mons station is a symbol of Belgium’s commitment to modernising rail transport. In a continent where rail is a sustainable and efficient alternative, infrastructure like this is essential to meet growing passenger demand.
With this new futuristic train station, Belgium not only connects people and countries, but it also reminds us that the future of transportation starts now. Who would have thought that a train station could be so inspiring?