Kleinbahn

A Kleinbahn (literally "small railway" in German) is a type of narrow-gauge railway, primarily found in German-speaking countries. Historically, Kleinbahnen were often privately owned or operated, serving local communities and connecting them to larger railway networks. They were typically built to lower standards and with lighter equipment than standard gauge railways, making them a more affordable option for transporting passengers and freight in rural areas. The term often encompasses railways with gauges narrower than standard gauge (1,435 mm or 4 ft 8 1⁄2 in), but it's primarily defined by its operational characteristics and purpose: serving local transportation needs rather than being part of the main national rail network. Some Kleinbahnen were also operated as street railways (trams or interurbans) within or between towns. While many Kleinbahnen have been closed or converted to standard gauge over time, some remain in operation today, often serving as tourist attractions. The term can also, somewhat loosely, refer to any small, local railway, even if not strictly a narrow-gauge line.