How did the S-Bahn and U-Bahn develop in Berlin?

Berlin’s rapid transit network, consisting of the S-Bahn and U-Bahn, has been central to the city's infrastructure since the late 19th century.

Development and History

• S-Bahn (Stadt- or Schnellbahn): Construction of this largely elevated and partly underground railway system began in 1871.1
• U-Bahn (Untergrundbahn): The building of this subway system was initiated in 1897.1

By the start of World War II, Berlin possessed one of the finest rapid transit systems in Europe. However, the subsequent division of the city led to a total separation of public transport services. During the period of partition, two U-Bahn lines continued to pass through areas of East Berlin, though they were prohibited from making stops at intermediate stations.12

Following German reunification, a lengthy and costly process began to restore a unified transit system. When the border reopened, both the S-Bahn and U-Bahn were immediately able to resume service between the eastern and western parts of the city. Since 1990, these networks have been expanded to better serve Berlin’s functions as a metropolitan capital.21