Test track in Châteauneuf-sur-Loire, Suspended metro test track in Châteauneuf-sur-Loire, France.
The test track in Châteauneuf-sur-Loire is an experimental monorail system extending 1,370 meters along the railway line between Orléans and Gien, supported by 136 steel, concrete, and wooden pillars. The structure features laminated wooden running paths inside the beam, along with electrical power supply and signaling systems to operate the vehicles.
Construction of this experimental monorail began in 1959 and drew international delegations from San Francisco, Germany, Canada, Italy, and Mexico to observe initial tests. The project reflected broader European and international confidence in innovative transport solutions during the early years of modern technological advancement.
This experimental track served as a filming location for François Truffaut's 1966 film Fahrenheit 451, leaving its mark on French cinema history. The futuristic structure embodied the film's visionary aesthetics and attracted filmmakers seeking locations to portray their visions of the future.
The track is clearly visible from nearby railway routes and can be observed from public pathways, making it accessible for viewing without special permission. The best time to visit is during daylight hours when construction details are easily visible and photography is most comfortable.
The experimental vehicle could carry up to 147 passengers and reached speeds of 100 kilometers per hour on a single elevated rail. This technical performance was remarkable for the era and demonstrated how advanced the design was compared to other transport experiments at the time.
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