Karaağaç(Elm) Railway Station

Edirne Karaağaç Train Station is an important structure located in the Karaağaç district of Edirne and was built in the 19th century during the reign of Abdulhamid II. Designed by architect Kemalettin Bey, this station was inspired by the Sirkeci Train Station in Istanbul. The building, which draws attention with its neoclassical style, was put into service in 1872. This historical venue, which serves as the Faculty of Fine Arts of Trakya University, is one of the most iconic structures of Edirne.

Edirne Karaağaç Station Story

Karaağaç Train Station was built in 1873 as an important railway stop of the Ottoman period. Operated by the Eastern Railway Company, the station played a strategic role as the Ottoman Empire's gateway to Europe. However, after the Treaty of Lausanne, Karaağaç was left to Greece and later taken back to Turkey. The station lost its importance during this period and the railway line was moved. Historical Development of Karaağaç Train Station

Karaağaç Train Station, planned to be a connection point between Edirne and Europe, was an important part of the Istanbul and Europe railway line. However, it lost its railway function during the Balkan Wars and World War I and was included in the borders of Turkey in 1923. The station building was restored in 1959. In 1971, the railway line was changed and the building was abandoned. In 1977, it was purchased by the Ministry of Finance.

Architectural Features of the Train Station

Karaağaç Train Station has neoclassical architectural features. The straight lines, large windows and simple decorations of the building reflect the neoclassical architectural understanding of the period. This three-story structure has a rectangular plan. The interior and exterior facades of the station, inspired by the Sirkeci Train Station in Istanbul, follow the design approach of the Eastern Railways. The spacious interiors, large halls and high ceilings of the station provided an ideal use for passenger and freight transportation and provided the connection of Edirne to Europe for many years. The solid stonework and finely detailed windows of the train station provide important clues about the late Ottoman architecture. Today, the architecture of this structure still preserves its aesthetic value, giving visitors the opportunity to get to know the architectural understanding of the period.

Current Use of Karaağaç Train Station

Today, Karaağaç Train Station is used by Trakya University Faculty of Fine Arts. This historical structure, which serves art education, also contributes to the social and cultural life of Edirne. The architecture and historical texture of the building attract the attention of local and foreign tourists.

How to Get to Karaağaç Train Station?

Karaağaç Train Station is located a few kilometers from Edirne city center. It is quite easy to reach the station by public transportation within the city. You can reach the station in a short time with buses and minibuses departing from Edirne Bus Station.

Importance of Karaağaç Train Station

The historical importance of the station is related to the role it played in the process of connecting Edirne to Europe by rail. Although it has gone through wars and restorations throughout its history, it still stands with its architecture and cultural value.