Knollys Tunnel
Couva-Tabaquite-Talparo
Knollys Tunnel, measuring approximately 660 feet, is the longest railway tunnel in the Caribbean and a prominent historical landmark in Trinidad. Named after Sir Clement Courtenay Knollys, the acting Colonial Governor who officially opened it on August 20, 1898, the tunnel was part of the Rio Claro railway line that connected Tabaquite to other regions. The tunnel's opening was a major event attended by over 220 people, including dignitaries, celebrating both the engineering feat and the railway link. The Rio Claro line, along with the San Fernando line, was closed on August 30, 1965, after 67 years of operation, amid public protests reflecting the community's attachment to the railway. After years of neglect, the tunnel was partially restored and reopened as a national heritage site in 1991. Today, it stands as a Grade A cultural heritage object, accessible to the public and preserved for its historical and engineering significance.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to visit Knollys Tunnel during daylight hours to fully appreciate its structure and surroundings. As a heritage site with full public access, no special tickets are required, but checking local event schedules or guided tours offered by the National Trust of Trinidad and Tobago can enhance the experience. The best time to visit is during dry weather to ensure safe and comfortable exploration of the tunnel and nearby areas.
Interesting facts
- •Knollys Tunnel is the longest railway tunnel in the Caribbean at approximately 660 feet in length.
- •The tunnel was named after Sir Clement Courtenay Knollys, the acting Colonial Governor who opened it in 1898.
- •The Rio Claro railway line, which included Knollys Tunnel, was operational for 67 years before closing in 1965.
- •The closure of the railway line sparked one of the most violent protests in Trinidad's railway history, with locals stoning the last train.
- •Knollys Tunnel was reopened as a national heritage site in 1991 after restoration efforts by the government.
History
Knollys Tunnel was officially opened on August 20, 1898, by Sir Clement Courtenay Knollys, the acting Colonial Governor of Trinidad and Tobago.
It was part of the Rio Claro railway line, which served the region for 67 years before closing on August 30, 1965.
The closure was met with strong local opposition, including protests that blocked the final train's passage.
After decades of neglect, the tunnel was partially restored and reopened as a national heritage site on August 13, 1991, marking its importance in Trinidad's railway history.
Place Guide
Southern Portal1898
The southern entrance of Knollys Tunnel features a replica commemorative plaque marking the official opening of the tunnel in 1898. This portal offers a glimpse into the engineering design of the late 19th century railway infrastructure.
Tunnel Interior1898
The interior of Knollys Tunnel showcases the brick-lined structure typical of Victorian-era railway tunnels. Visitors can walk through to experience the engineering marvel that connected Tabaquite to other regions.
Northern Portal1898
The northern entrance of the tunnel leads towards Tabaquite town and was part of the Rio Claro line connecting to the Southern Main Line. It marks the historical railway route and the junction named after Governor Jerningham.
