The very first tracks emerged spontaneously. When wagons traveled the same path repeatedly, ruts formed in the road surface after the wheels. Ancient four-wheeled carts had fixed axles, making them challenging to steer. However, if the wheels followed the worn wheel tracks, the wagon stayed on course. One of the advantages of tracks had been discovered!

1000 BCE

In the cities of ancient Greece, tracks were carved into the ground. Double tracks and switches were arranged for passing and meetings, bringing better order to city traffic.

1500s

German mines used wooden rails nailed to sleepers. The wagon wheels had flanges on both sides to prevent them from slipping off the rails.

1700s

In English mines, wooden rails were replaced with cast iron rails. This change reduced wear and tear. Shorter railroads for freight transport became common in England.

Caption: German Mine Tracks in a Woodcut from 1556