kulmarautat

Kulmarautat, also known as "Kulmabahn" in German, refers to a type of narrow-gauge railway that was prevalent in the Baltic region, particularly in Estonia, Latvia, and parts of Russia, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These railways typically had a gauge of 750 mm (2 ft 5+1⁄2 in), which was narrower than the standard gauge used in most other railway systems. The term "kulmarautat" is derived from the Estonian words "kulm" meaning "corner" or "angle," and "raudtee" meaning "railroad," reflecting the often angular and winding nature of these tracks.

Kulmarautat were built to serve remote and sparsely populated areas where the cost of constructing standard-gauge railways was prohibitive. They were often used for transporting timber, agricultural products, and other goods to and from rural communities. The narrow gauge allowed for more flexible track laying, enabling the railways to navigate through difficult terrain and around obstacles more easily than standard-gauge lines.

The most famous kulmarautat is the Estonian Railway, which operated in Estonia from 1896 until the Soviet occupation in 1940. This railway network connected various towns and villages, facilitating trade and communication across the country. Other kulmarautat systems existed in Latvia and parts of Russia, serving similar purposes in their respective regions.

Despite their historical significance, most kulmarautat have been abandoned or converted to other uses, such as walking paths or bicycle trails, as modern transportation infrastructure has improved. However, some sections remain operational, and efforts are being made to preserve and restore these historic railways for both cultural and practical reasons.