Railway Viaduct in Łagów

Anyone driving into Łagów from Żelechów passes under the arches of a brick viaduct, with the railway running high overhead. It is the most striking structure on the Międzyrzecz–Toporów line and, for walkers, one of the best viewpoints in the village.

History: a railway through the lakeland

Planning for a single-track line from Międzyrzecz to Toporów began in 1904, and the Prussian State Railways started construction in 1907. The route had to cross the Łagów Lakeland, with its glacial hills and boggy valleys, which called for many embankments, cuttings and viaducts. The one over the road to Żelechów, today's ul. Mostowa, is the largest. Sources differ on when it was built: 1906 or 1909. The line opened on 1 August 1909, and the first train from Toporów was welcomed at Łagów station by a band.

The railway helped Łagów grow into a holiday resort. Passenger services were suspended in 1987, and today the Toporów – Łagów – Sieniawa Lubuska section carries freight.

What to see

• The viaduct – brick, about 40 metres long, with granite drip mouldings supporting the metal railings.
• The height – the difference between the road surface and the tracks is 25 metres.
• The viewpoint – steep steps lead up, and from the viaduct you can see most of Łagów with the tower of the Hospitallers' castle.

Tripto tip

The viaduct is a few minutes' walk from the castle and the March Gate. The steps are steep, so take care, especially after rain, and keep off the working line. The best photo of the viaduct itself is from below, on ul. Mostowa. Fifteen to twenty minutes is enough.