Funicolare di Montecatini

Gigio and Gigia are a special pair. They’ve reportedly witnessed over a million kisses between them. Official tallies cannot be confirmed, but the atmosphere surrounding these Tuscan twins undoubtedly inspires irrepressible romance.

The twins—that is, dual identical red train cars— of the Funicolare di Montecatini opened their doors in unison in the summer of 1898. The Funicolare was built to connect the lower part of Montecatini Terme with the upper part of the town, making it easier for visitors to access the facilities on the hill. It was viewed by all as a delightful voyage: the inaugural, star-studded riders included famed opera composer Giuseppe Verdi.

Passengers on the fondly named Gigio and Gigia take in the tremendous Tuscan landscape while ascending the mountainside. Sitting on vintage wooden benches, they wave to the opposite car as they pass the midway point, perhaps sneaking un bacio along the way (for G&G’s eyes only).

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