The Deepest Metro in the World

The Deepest Metro in the World

The Deepest Metro in the World

When it comes to metro systems, depth is not just an engineering challenge—it’s often dictated by geography, geology, and history. The deepest metro station in the world is Arsenalna in Kyiv, Ukraine. Opened in 1960, this station plunges approximately 105.5 meters (346 feet) below ground. The extraordinary depth was necessary due to Kyiv’s hilly landscape and the proximity of the Dnipro River, which required tunnels to be built far beneath the surface to avoid water seepage.

Reaching Arsenalna’s platforms is a unique experience for passengers. Two of the world’s longest escalators—each taking about five minutes to ride from top to bottom—carry commuters through layers of earth and rock. The station’s Soviet-era design reflects the architectural style of the time, with modest decor compared to the ornate stations found in Moscow’s metro.

Interestingly, deep metro stations like Arsenalna also serve as potential bomb shelters, a role they have played in various historical periods, including recent times. In fact, several deep metro stations worldwide, such as Admiralteyskaya in Saint Petersburg (86 meters) and Park Pobedy in Moscow (84 meters), were designed with civil defense in mind.

While Arsenalna holds the official record, other deep stations exist for unique reasons—whether to pass under rivers, navigate mountainous terrain, or avoid existing underground infrastructure. These engineering marvels demonstrate how urban transportation adapts to challenging environments while still ensuring safety and efficiency.

Tags:
#deepest metro # Arsenalna station # Kyiv metro # underground transport # metro depth