The history of Swiss railways began in the early 19th century, with the first railway line, the Spanisch-Brötli-Bahn, opening in 1847. This initial line connected Zürich and Baden, marking the start of a rapid expansion of the railway network across Switzerland. By the late 1800s, several private companies had emerged, leading to the establishment of a comprehensive and efficient rail system. In 1902, the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) was founded to unify the various private railways and improve service. Over the years, Swiss railways became known for their punctuality and scenic routes, contributing significantly to Switzerland's economy and tourism. Today, the network remains one of the most advanced in the world.