Atlantic Railroad opens first section

On July 7, 1865, the initial 10-mile segment of Costa Rica's Atlantic Railroad from Puerto Limón inland to Matina was inaugurated amid great fanfare. This British-engineered project overcame malaria-ridden swamps and dense jungle using narrow-gauge tracks and early steam locomotives imported from England. President Jesús Jiménez personally attended the ceremony, highlighting its role in transforming the economy by allowing efficient shipment of coffee and later bananas to European markets. The line's success spurred further expansion across the isthmus, connecting the Caribbean coast to the central valley and fostering national unity. It remains a foundational chapter in Central American rail history despite later financial scandals.