5 - "Swing bridge" and general view of buildings and vehicles

We continue our trip along the wooded path that runs parallel to one of the sides of the Rotonda (Roundhouse) building, which leads us to the 23-metre-diametre “Swing Bridge” that is still in use. It was built in 1917 by the former MZA railway company. Although some existing bridges were moved manually, this is operated by means of an electric motor that is activated in the booth on one of its sides.

Its 23-metre length was sufficient until the 1930s in order to turn locomotives around to invert their direction and place them on the right track, since steam engines could only move in one direction. From then on, larger engines were built, which caused serious problems in most depots in order to move such large locomotives. Bridges up to 30 metres long were built.

From this area of Vilanova i la Geltrú’s former Steam Depot, which functioned until 1967, we can contemplate the impressive presence of the modernist building called the Rotonda (Roundhouse). It houses the Museum’s collection of the oldest and most valuable vehicles. There are 54 in total, among which 25 steam locomotives stand out. It is one of Europe’s most complete collections, being ordered chronologically, which mainly corresponds with their size. The collection takes us through the history of steam power from its origins to its end, as well as the evolution of the conditions experienced by railway workers and travellers.

Apart from steam locomotives, there are also diesel and electric engines, different types of railway vehicles and a series of passenger cars located at the beginning of the Rotonda (Roundhouse) building.