THE LEGENDARY HISTORY IN 10 DATES
HISTORY
Invent / Reinvent
Invent / Reinvent
The history of Orient Express is a technical, industrial and artistic epic tale. Drawing on this history and its emotional heritage, it continues to amplify this experience, always pushing the limits of what is possible to explore another way of traveling.
When it all began
1867
After a heartbreak, young Belgian engineer Georges Nagelmackers fled to the United States. There, he discovered railroads with the world's first sleeping cars. Back in Europe, he realized his life's work: launching luxurious trains that would lead to the Gates of the Orient.
The CIWL is born
1876
Behind the acronym was a company driven by audacity, the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits (The International Sleeping Car company) These trains became known for their luxurious decorations, unparalleled comfort, unprecedented services on board, plus travel agencies and workshops throughout Europe.
The inaugural journey
1883
On October 4th, 1883, the most fascinating train in the world left Paris for Constantinople and embarked with forty passengers on board. The round trip lasted 7 days. With this one trip, the geography of Europe was turned upside down, and the notion of long-distance travel was completely redefined.
The opening of the first hotels
1894
Georges Nagelmackers founded the Compagnie Internationale des Grands Hôtels. From Paris to Peking, from Istanbul to Cairo, as the Orient-Express traveled through different countries and opened sumptuous palace hotels along the way, extending the experience of a train journey into a fullly modern, luxurious travel experience.
The birth of a unique style
1926 – 1929
Designed by decorator René Prou and master glassmaker René Lalique, the new Pullman lounge cars inspired a new art of living on board. These masterpieces of refinement and luxury in Art Deco style embodied the excellence of French travel.
Murder on the Orient Express
1934
On January 1st, Murder on the Orient Express was published. This mystery novel written by the star of suspense, Agatha Christie, quickly gained a cult following, inspiring numerous film adaptations and feeding the imaginations of travelers for nearly a century.
The ultimate journey
1977
On May 20th, the Orient-Express made its last direct trip between Paris and Istanbul. The development of the air travel market at the end of the 20th century was a blow to the Compagnie Internationale des Wagons-Lits, who was forced to sell some of its cars at auction.
A new identity
2016
Orient Express unveiled its new identity at the International Contemporary Art Fair (FIAC) with premiere collection of travel objects. Six emblematic pieces were inspired by the history of the legendary company and added an artistic layer to a contemporary art of living.
Today and tomorrow
Orient Express is thrilled to announce the launch of a new collection of luxury hotels and a new collection of travel objects. A new chapter has begun. The Orient Express myth is continuing its legendary journey.
Stay on track
Stay on track
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