First horsecar trams begin operation in Tallinn

Historical Context. Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, was widely known as Reval from the 13th century until the first half of the 20th century. The city's tram network, which remains the only one in Estonia, originated with this historical name. The introduction of horsecars in 1888 preceded the later development of electric trams and modern transport operators.

Early Network. The first tramline opened in 1888 as a horsecar line. This initial infrastructure laid the groundwork for the current network, which features a cross-shaped layout. While the specific details of the 1888 route are not detailed in the provided sources, the event is recognized as the start of the city's tram system.

Legacy and Evolution. The 1888 horsecar operation is the earliest recorded phase of Tallinn's tram history. The system evolved significantly over time, including the start of electrification in 1931. The legacy of this early period is preserved in the historical record of the city's transport developments, though specific operational details from 1888 are limited in the available sources.