Lóvasút

Lóvasút, also known as horse-drawn railway or horse railway, is a type of railway that uses horses as the motive power. This method of transportation was prevalent before the widespread adoption of steam and later diesel and electric locomotives. Lóvasút systems typically consist of a series of rails laid along a route, with horses pulling the trains. The horses are usually harnessed in pairs, with one horse pulling the train and the other providing stability and balance.

The use of horses in railways began in the early 19th century, with the first horse-drawn railway in the United States being the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, which opened in 1827. Horse-drawn railways were particularly common in rural areas and in regions where coal, the primary fuel for steam locomotives, was scarce. They were also used in mining operations, where the rugged terrain made steam locomotives impractical.

Lóvasút systems had several advantages over steam locomotives. They were quieter, produced less pollution, and were more adaptable to varying terrain. However, they also had significant disadvantages, including the need for a constant supply of fresh horses, the potential for accidents due to the unpredictable nature of horses, and the slower speed compared to steam locomotives.

The decline of horse-drawn railways began with the invention of the steam locomotive in the mid-19th century. As steam power became more efficient and reliable, horse-drawn railways were gradually replaced. Today, lóvasút systems are largely a historical curiosity, with only a few remaining in operation for tourist attractions or special events.