Metro stations have long ceased to be just transportation hubs. Today, many of them are true architectural masterpieces. Here is a review of seven most amazing metro stations.
Formosa Boulevard
This station is located in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Opened in 2008, it immediately attracted attention with its stunning design. The highlight of the station is one of the world's largest glass installations, shaped like a giant dome placed right above the platform. The composition is a mosaic made up of thousands of glass panels, assembled into a colorful stained glass window. Passengers can see depictions of the four elements: water, earth, fire, and air.
Kungsträdgården
This station is in the heart of the Swedish capital. It appeared on the Stockholm metro map in 1977 and remains a popular tourist spot. Kungsträdgården is often called an underground art gallery because of its unique decor. The station's walls are adorned with mosaics, frescoes, and art installations that depict elements of the nearby park of the same name, including greenery, fountains, and sculptures.
Westfriedhof
Opened in 1998 in Munich, Germany, this station is one of the key points of the city's U1 metro line and is a popular tourist attraction. Westfriedhof has a minimalist yet striking design. Its standout feature is the enormous lamps, the size of car wheels, suspended from the ceiling. These lights bathe the platform in soft yet bright light, which shifts from yellow to purple.
Toledo
Opened in 2012 in Naples, Italy, this metro station is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. Its main feature is the use of lighting to create the illusion of being submerged underwater. The walls and ceiling are covered with mosaics that shimmer in shades of blue, giving the impression of being at the bottom of the ocean. Additionally, the station is adorned with numerous themed sculptures and art installations, making it more than just a transit hub—it is like an art gallery.
Olaias
Located in Lisbon, Portugal, this metro station was opened in 1998. It is known for its bold and vibrant design, which makes it stand out among other stations. Olaias' interior is decorated with massive metallic structures and multicolored stained glass, creating a play of light and color. The station also features impressive art objects and sculptures, adding unique expressiveness and dynamism to the architectural ensemble.
Khalid Bin Al Waleed
This station is in Dubai, UAE, and is one of the city's most striking thanks to its unique design. It was opened in 2009 as part of the first phase of Dubai's metro system. The station's design follows a modern high-tech style, incorporating elements of traditional Islamic art. Its interior features bright mosaics, intricately patterned ceilings, and glass panels.
Bockenheimer Warte
This metro station is located in Frankfurt, Germany. It was opened in 1986 and has since been a key transport hub in the city. Bockenheimer Warte is famous for its unusual design. The entrance is shaped like an exploding metro train, giving the impression that the train is bursting out from underground. This architectural element not only grabs the attention of passengers and tourists but also makes the station one of the most recognizable in the world.