Arquata – Italy Container Terminal

The Arquata terminal in Italy represents one of the most important transport hubs in northwestern Italy, connecting the industrial and commercial centers of the Piedmont region with the Mediterranean. Located in the small town of Arquata Scrivia in the Province of Alessandria, in the Piedmont region, it serves as a key point on the railway line connecting Turin, Genoa, and Milan. Although not as well known as the main stations in large cities, the Arquata terminal plays a fundamental role in Italian transport infrastructure, particularly in the area of intermodal logistics and the connection between the port of Genoa and northern Italy.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to all aspects of the Arquata terminal – from its history dating back to the 19th century, through its modern infrastructure, to practical information for travelers and logistics professionals.

What is the Arquata Terminal in Italy?

Basic Definition and Geographic Location

The Arquata terminal in Italy, officially known as Stazione di Arquata Scrivia (Arquata Scrivia railway station), is a railway station and intermodal logistics terminal located in the town of Arquata Scrivia in the Province of Alessandria in Piedmont. The station is located at Piazza della Repubblica 6, with geographic coordinates 44°41′32″N 8°53′06″E, at an altitude of approximately 250 meters.

The terminal serves as a junction of two important railway lines: the Turin–Genoa railway (Torino–Genova railway) and the Succursale dei Giovi, which is a more direct route connecting Genoa with the Piedmont region. This location makes Arquata an ideal point for transporting goods and passengers between northern Italy and the Mediterranean. The station is located approximately 40 kilometers from Genoa, 90 kilometers from Milan, and 130 kilometers from Turin.

The terminal is managed by Rete Ferroviaria Italiana (RFI), which is a subsidiary of the state railway company Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane (FSI). Passenger services are operated primarily by Trenitalia and Trenord, while logistics operations fall under the management of private operators such as Sinergy Cargo and Metrocargo Italia.

Historical Development – from 1851 to the Present

To understand the importance of the Arquata terminal, it is necessary to look at its rich history, which dates back to the mid-19th century. The terminal has undergone several major transformations that reflect the development of Italian railway infrastructure and transport needs.

The Original Station and the Turin–Genoa Railway (1851–1916)

The journey of the Arquata terminal began in 1851, when the original station was opened as part of the ambitious Turin–Genoa railway (Torino–Genova railway) project. This line was built under the Kingdom of Sardinia with the aim of connecting Piedmont with the Ligurian port of Genoa, which had enormous commercial and military significance. The original station was opened on February 1, 1851, as part of the Novi Ligure–Arquata Scrivia section, a 12-kilometer extension of the line.

The original station was located at a site that today corresponds to the area along Via Roma, and was a simple building intended to serve local and regional traffic. The station was strategically positioned on a route that passed through the challenging terrain of the Apennines, where trains had to cope with steep gradients of up to 36 per mille (3.6% slope). These high gradients made the transport of heavy loads difficult and limited train speeds.

Despite these technical challenges, Arquata station became an important intermediate stop on the line, which was fully activated on December 18, 1853. The station processed significant quantities of goods – industrial products such as coal and iron were imported, and agricultural goods, especially silk and grain, were exported. During the second half of the 19th century, the station underwent minor expansions to increase its capacity and efficiency.

The New Station and Succursale dei Giovi (from 1916)

Although the original station was functional, its location on the steep and winding route through the Giovi Pass presented a long-term problem. To resolve these limitations, the Italian railways planned a new, more suitable direction. The Succursale dei Giovi (literally “Giovi branch”) was a new line intended to bypass the mountain pass and provide a more direct route from Genoa to northern Italy.

Simultaneously with the opening of the new Succursale dei Giovi section, a new station was also built. The new Arquata Scrivia station was opened on October 1, 1916, the same day the Tortona–Arquata Scrivia section of the new line was put into service. This new station was located at Piazza della Repubblica and remains there to this day. The station building, constructed in the classicist style typical of early 20th-century Italian railway architecture, became a symbol of progress in transport infrastructure.

The new line was revolutionary – it had much lower gradients (approximately 12.5 per mille on average) and was longer (to avoid steep slopes), but allowed higher speeds and greater capacities. This had an immediate impact on transport efficiency. In June 1922, the line was further extended with the opening of the Arquata Scrivia–Ronco Scrivia section (June 1, 1922), completing the Succursale dei Giovi and connecting Genoa with Tortona.

Electrification and Modernization (1910s–1941)

Starting in the second decade of the 20th century, the Italian railways began a massive electrification program. The new Arquata station was designed from the outset with electrification in mind. Electrification gradually progressed from the Genoa area northward, and by 1941 the entire Turin–Genoa line was electrified on the 3 kV direct current system (3 kV DC), which became the standard on Italian state railways.

With electrification came modern signaling systems. In 1967, the ACEI system (Accentramento Comandi Elettrici Itinerari – centralized electrical route control) was put into operation, allowing control centers to remotely monitor and safely manage train movements at the junction. This technology was very advanced at the time and ensured safety at this complex hub where two main lines converged.

World War II and British Military Operations

During World War II, Arquata station became an important logistics point for the Allied forces. When Britain and its allies sought to support Italian armed forces and later operate in Italy after Italy entered the war on the Allied side, Arquata station served as a key distribution center. From 1917 to 1918, a British military base was established here, serving as a transit point for soldiers and military materiel arriving by ship in Genoa.

British units stored supplies here and organized their distribution to the northern fronts. The station and surrounding infrastructure thus became part of an extensive military logistics network. After World War II, the terminal was restored and returned to civilian transport.

Post-War Recovery and Current Status

After World War II, the station and surrounding infrastructure required significant repairs due to bombing. Allied forces bombed railway junctions in northern Italy to disrupt the supply of German units. The station was gradually restored and was fully operational by the early 1950s.

In recent decades, the station has focused more on regional and freight transport rather than high-speed services. Unlike larger stations such as Milan or Turin, Arquata station is not part of the high-speed network. Instead, it serves as an important hub for regional trains and especially for intermodal logistics, which combines rail and road transport.

How is the Arquata Terminal Structured from an Infrastructure Perspective?

Track and Platform Layout

The Arquata terminal is designed as a modern railway station with sophisticated infrastructure that reflects its role as an important junction. The station has a total of 7 tracks, of which 5 have passenger platforms and 2 are through tracks without platforms, used for trains passing through without stopping.

The track layout is very specific and reflects the functions of the station:

• Track 1: Serves arrivals and departures toward Alessandria, Turin, and Milan
• Tracks 2 and 3: These are through tracks without platforms on the main Turin–Genoa line, intended for trains passing through the station without stopping
• Track 4: Serves connections on the Turin–Genoa line
• Track 5: Serves selected trains to Milan, Piacenza, and Rimini
• Track 6: Supports connections on the Milan–Genoa line
• Track 8: Functions as a terminal platform

The station is designed in a Y-shaped layout, meaning that two main lines – the Turin–Genoa railway and the Succursale dei Giovi – converge here, creating a junction that allows efficient routing of trains in various directions. This Y-shaped layout is characteristic of railway junctions where multiple routes converge.

Electrification and Signaling

Arquata station is fully electrified on the 3 kV direct current (3 kV DC) system, which is the standard on Italian state railways. This electrification enables the operation of modern electric locomotives and trains, which are more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than older diesel units.

Control and safety at the station is ensured by the ACEI system (Accentramento Comandi Elettrici Itinerari), which was put into operation in 1967. This system allows operators at a remote control center to electronically monitor and safely manage train routes through the station and prevent collisions. The signaling system is critical for safety at such a complex junction where trains from various directions converge.

Station Building and Traveler Facilities

The main station building was constructed in 1916 and represents typical Italian railway architecture of the early 20th century. It is located at Piazza della Repubblica 6 and serves as the primary access point for passengers. The building contains several key elements:

Traveler Services and Facilities:

• Ticket office: Staff sell paper tickets and provide information on timetables and routes
• Ticket machines: Self-service machines allow passengers to buy tickets 24 hours a day
• Waiting rooms: Comfortable rooms where passengers can wait for their train
• Toilets: Paid public toilets with drinking water
• Shops: Newsstand and tobacconist
• Food and drink vending machines: Sale of snacks and beverages

Modern Facilities:

• Electric vehicle charging: The station has several charging stations for electric vehicles, reflecting the trend toward sustainable transport
• Bicycle racks: Spaces for parking bicycles
• Parking spaces: Paid parking with reserved spaces for persons with disabilities
• Information systems: Audio and visual information systems announcing train arrivals and departures

Accessibility:

The station strives to be accessible to persons with disabilities and persons with reduced mobility, although it is not fully equipped for all types of disabilities. Available features include:

• Step-free access to at least one platform via ramps
• Tactile strips leading from the entrance to platform 1
• Reserved parking spaces for persons with disabilities
• Toilets adapted for wheelchair users

However, the station lacks elevators for all tracks and no personal assistance service for persons with disabilities is available on-site.

What Transport Connections Does the Arquata Terminal Offer?

Passenger Transport – Trains and Connections

The Arquata terminal is served by several carriers operating regional and long-distance trains. The station focuses primarily on regional transport, meaning trains that stop at multiple stations and serve local passengers and travelers traveling between nearby cities.

Trenitalia – Regional Connections

The main carrier is Trenitalia, the state railway company that operates most regional trains in Italy. Trenitalia operates Regionale Veloce (RV) trains, which are relatively fast regional trains that stop at key stations but not at all small stops.

Main connections from Arquata:

1. Arquata → Genoa Brignole/Piazza Principe: Journey time approximately 45 minutes. Trains run approximately every 30 minutes during peak hours and every hour off-peak. This is one of the most frequently used connections, as Genoa is an important port and tourist destination.
2. Arquata → Turin Porta Nuova: Journey time approximately 90 minutes. Trains run approximately every one to two hours. Turin is the capital of the Piedmont region and an important industrial center.
3. Arquata → Milan Centrale: Journey time approximately 60–90 minutes (depending on the type of train and number of stops). Trains run approximately every one to two hours. Milan is the largest city in northern Italy and an important commercial and cultural center.
4. Connections to other cities: Some trains continue further to cities such as Piacenza, Rimini, La Spezia Centrale, and others.

Trenord – Connections to Lombardy

Trenord is a regional carrier serving Lombardy (the region that includes Milan). Trenord operates approximately 4–6 daily connections from Arquata to Milan Centrale via Novi Ligure station. These connections are important for passengers from the Piedmont region who want to travel to Lombardy.

Practical Information for Passengers

• Peak and off-peak hours: During the morning peak (approximately 5:00–9:00) and evening peak (approximately 17:00–22:00), there are more trains. Off-peak, connections are less frequent.
• Weekend service: On Saturdays and Sundays there are fewer trains than on weekdays.
• Ticket purchase: Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office, at machines, or online on carrier websites.
• Prices: Prices vary depending on distance and type of train. Regional connections are cheaper than express connections.
• Average number of trains: The station is served by approximately 50–60 bidirectional train movements per day (i.e., 25–30 trains in each direction).

Freight Transport and Intermodal Services

In addition to passenger transport, the Arquata terminal is also an important center for freight transport and intermodal logistics. Intermodal transport means the combination of different modes of transport – in this case rail and road transport – for the efficient movement of goods.

Interporto di Arquata Scrivia

A key element of the freight infrastructure is the Interporto di Arquata Scrivia (Arquata Scrivia Intermodal Terminal), which has been operating since 1921. The Interporto is a logistics center located approximately 1 kilometer from the station and connected to it by railway tracks and outdoor platforms.

The Interporto offers the following services:

• Storage: Covered and outdoor storage spaces for various types of goods
• Cargo handling: Equipment for loading and unloading goods
• Container terminal: Processing of full and empty shipping containers
• Intermodal transport: Transfer of goods between train and truck
• Specialized storage: Silos for grain and cereals

Types of Goods and Capacities

The Interporto processes various types of goods, in particular:

• Agricultural products: Grain, rice, corn, soybeans, onions
• Chemicals: Hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals
• Metals and alloys: Copper pipes, iron alloys
• Paper and pulp: Paper, fibers, cotton
• Other: Wood, salt, beer, polyethylene

Historically, the Interporto was very busy. In 1929, it processed approximately 208,000 quintals (20,800 tons) of goods annually, which was a considerable amount at the time. These goods came from the ports of Genoa and Savona and from manufacturing plants in the surrounding area.

Operators and Modernization

Currently, the Interporto is managed by private operators, in particular:

• Sinergy Cargo: Operates a 105,000 square meter logistics center that was opened in 2012
• Metrocargo Italia: In June 2023, announced the implementation of a new 8,000 square meter logistics platform at the station

These operators are modernizing facilities and introducing new technologies to increase efficiency and capacity.

Impact of the Terzo Valico Project

The new Terzo Valico dei Giovi project (Third Giovi Pass) will have a significant impact on freight transport in Arquata. This project involves the construction of a new 53-kilometer high-speed line that will have lower gradients and greater capacity. In January 2024, the first section (8.5 km) between Rivalta Scrivia and Tortona was opened, increasing capacity and improving connections with the interport.

What is the Historical and Economic Development of the Terminal?

Economic Development in the 19th and 20th Centuries

The Arquata terminal developed in line with the economic cycles of Italy and Europe. In the 19th century, when the line was built, railways were considered a revolutionary technology that would transform trade and industry. Arquata station became part of this transformation.

Early Period (1851–1900)

In the first decades after the station opened in 1851, its main function was the transport of industrial goods and agricultural products. Piedmont was at that time one of the most industrialized regions of Italy, with production of silk, cotton, and metals. Arquata station served as a key point for the export of these products through Genoa to the world.

At the same time, the station served as a point for importing raw materials such as coal and iron from various parts of Europe. This commercial activity made the station economically important for the local community.

Growth Period (1900–1930)

Starting from 1900 and especially after the opening of the Succursale dei Giovi in 1916, Arquata station became even more important. The new line with lower gradients allowed the transport of heavier loads and higher speeds, which increased efficiency and profitability.

In the 1920s, after World War I, Italy sought to recover from war damage and rebuild its economy. Arquata station was part of this recovery process. The Interporto di Arquata, founded in 1921, became an important logistics center.

In 1929 (just before the economic crisis), the Interporto processed approximately 208,000 quintals of goods annually, which was the peak of its activity in this era.

Period of Decline (1930–1980)

After World War II, Arquata station returned to civilian operations, but its relative importance gradually declined. Several factors contributed to this decline:

1. Motorization and road transport: With the rise of cars and trucks, road transport became more competitive than rail. The A7 motorway (Genoa–Milan), gradually built in the 1950s and 1960s, provided an alternative to rail transport.
2. Railway deregulation: In the 1980s, Italy deregulated the railway industry, leading to the closure of many local industrial connections and a reduction in freight transport.
3. Logistics centralization: Large logistics companies concentrated in larger terminals near major cities, reducing the importance of smaller terminals such as Arquata.

Nevertheless, the station remained operational and maintained its role as a regional hub.

Modern Period (1980–Present)

From the 1980s to the present, Arquata station has focused more on regional passenger transport and intermodal logistics. Intermodal transport – the combination of rail and road transport – became a new opportunity.

In the last two decades, there has been a renewed interest in rail transport, particularly in the context of sustainability and climate change. The European Union supports the shift from road to rail transport, and projects such as Terzo Valico dei Giovi are part of this effort.

In 2012, new 105,000 square meter Sinergy Cargo logistics facilities were opened, signaling a renewed interest in Arquata as a logistics center. In 2023, Metrocargo Italia announced the implementation of an additional 8,000 square meter platform.

Strategic and Geopolitical Significance

The Arquata terminal has a long history of strategic and geopolitical significance. In the 19th century, the railway was built partly for military reasons – the Kingdom of Sardinia wanted to connect its industrial and commercial center (Turin) with its port (Genoa) for military and commercial purposes.

During World War I (1917–1918), the station served as a key point for British military operations in Italy. British units stored weapons, ammunition, and food supplies here, which were transported by ship from Britain to Genoa and then by train to northern Italy.

During World War II, the station and surrounding infrastructure were bombed by Allied forces to disrupt the supply lines of German units.

Today, the station has strategic significance in the context of the Rhine-Alps Corridor, which is a key European transport axis connecting the Mediterranean (Genoa) with Northern Europe (the Netherlands, Germany). Arquata station is part of this network and plays a role in integrating Italian logistics into European transport infrastructure.

How Does the Arquata Terminal Differ from Other Italian Railway Hubs?

Comparison with Other Stations in the Region

To understand the uniqueness of the Arquata terminal, it is useful to compare it with other railway stations in the Piedmont region and in northern Italy.

From the table it can be seen that Arquata is a medium-sized station with a healthy balance between passenger and freight transport. Unlike Alessandria, which is larger and has more tracks, Arquata focuses more on regional transport and intermodal logistics.

Unique Characteristics of Arquata

The Arquata terminal has several unique characteristics that distinguish it from others:

1. Y-shaped junction: Arquata is one of the few stations where two important lines (Torino–Genova and Succursale dei Giovi) converge in a Y-shape. This layout allows efficient routing of trains in various directions.
2. Combination of passenger and freight transport: Unlike many stations that focus on only one type of transport, Arquata has a healthy combination of both.
3. Historical and strategic location: Arquata is on a historic line dating back to the 19th century and has a strategic location between Genoa and northern Italy.
4. Modern intermodal facilities: Although the station is historic, it has been modernized with new logistics facilities, such as those of Sinergy Cargo and Metrocargo.

What is the Strategic and Logistical Significance of the Terminal?

Role in the European Transport Network

The Arquata terminal plays an important role in the European transport network, particularly in the context of the Rhine-Alps Corridor, which is one of nine so-called TEN-T (Trans-European Transport Networks) priority axes.

Rhine-Alps Corridor

The Rhine-Alps Corridor is a transport corridor connecting the Mediterranean (especially Genoa) with Northern Europe (especially the Netherlands and Germany) via the Alps. This corridor is key for European trade, as it connects:

• Genoa (the largest port in Italy and one of the largest in the Mediterranean)
• Northern Italy (Turin, Milan – industrial centers)
• Switzerland (transit country)
• Germany (the largest economy in Europe)
• Benelux (the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg – gateway to Northern Europe)

The Arquata terminal is part of this corridor and serves as a key point for transporting goods from Genoa to northern Italy and further into Europe.

Intermodal Transport

The Arquata terminal is an important center for intermodal transport, meaning the combination of different modes of transport. In Arquata, goods are transferred from ships in Genoa to trains, which carry them to northern Italy, where they are transferred to trucks for last-mile delivery.

This intermodal transport has several advantages:

• Efficiency: Trains can transport more goods per journey than trucks
• Cost-effectiveness: Rail transport is often cheaper than purely road transport over long distances
• Sustainability: Trains are more energy-efficient and produce fewer CO₂ emissions than trucks

Terzo Valico dei Giovi Project

One of the most significant projects that will impact the Arquata terminal is the Terzo Valico dei Giovi (Third Giovi Pass), which is a new high-speed and high-capacity corridor for freight and passenger transport.

What is Terzo Valico?

Terzo Valico is a new 53-kilometer railway line that will connect Genoa (port) with Tortona and further with northern Italy and the Alps. The line is to be built with very low gradients (12.5 per mille on average), which will allow heavy trains with large loads to travel faster and more safely.

Construction Phases and Plan

The project is divided into several phases:

1. Phase 1 (Rivalta–Tortona): This 8.5-kilometer section was opened in January 2024. This section includes the new Rivalta Scrivia terminal with four 750-meter tracks for freight trains.
2. Phase 2 (Tortona–Arquata): This section, which will directly affect Arquata, is still under construction and should be completed in the coming years.
3. Phase 3 (Arquata–Genoa): The final phase, which will connect Arquata directly with Genoa, is planned for later.

Impact on Arquata

Terzo Valico will have several important impacts on the Arquata terminal:

1. Increased capacity: The new line will have greater capacity for freight trains, increasing the volume of goods that can be transported.
2. Higher speeds: Lower gradients will allow trains to travel faster, reducing transport times.
3. Better connections: Arquata will be better connected with the new Rivalta Scrivia terminal and with Genoa.
4. Increased trade: Increased capacity and speed will likely lead to increased trade through Arquata.
5. Environmental benefits: More goods transported by train instead of trucks will have a positive impact on the environment.

In January 2024, the first section was put into operation, and Arquata has already begun to see an increase in regional connections. Six daily Trenord trains between Tortona and Novi Ligure now stop in Arquata during peak hours, increasing the accessibility of the station.

What are the Practical Details for Visitors and Travelers?

How to Get to and from Arquata

By Train

The most convenient way to get to Arquata is by train. The station is served by regional trains from major cities in northern Italy:

• From Genoa: Approximately 45 minutes, trains run every 30–60 minutes
• From Turin: Approximately 90 minutes, trains run approximately every hour
• From Milan: Approximately 60–90 minutes, trains run approximately every hour
• From Alessandria: Approximately 15 minutes, trains run approximately every 30 minutes

By Car

The station is located approximately 1 kilometer from the A7 motorway (Genoa–Milan). If traveling by car:

• From Genoa: Approximately 45 minutes via the A7 motorway
• From Turin: Approximately 120 minutes via the A7 or A21 motorway
• From Milan: Approximately 90 minutes via the A7 motorway

The station has parking spaces with reserved spaces for persons with disabilities.

By Bus

There are also bus connections to Arquata, although they are not as frequent as trains. The local bus company Busitalia operates connections to nearby towns.

Services and Facilities at the Station

Arquata station offers basic traveler services:

• Ticket office: Open during working hours according to the timetable
• Ticket machines: Available 24/7
• Waiting rooms: Air-conditioned rooms
• Toilets: Paid (€0.50–1.00)
• Shops: Newspapers, tobacco, refreshments
• Information services: Information desk in the main hall
• Electric vehicle charging: Several charging stations
• Bicycle racks: Free
• Parking spaces: Paid, reserved for persons with disabilities

Practical Tips for Travelers

1. Buy your ticket in advance: If traveling during peak hours, it is advisable to buy your ticket in advance to avoid sell-outs.
2. Use apps: The Trenitalia and Omio apps will help you plan your journey and purchase tickets.
3. Allow extra time: Regional trains are often delayed, so allow for additional time.
4. Be careful with luggage: Arquata station is not as large as main stations, so keep an eye on your luggage.
5. Combine tickets: If traveling through multiple stations, you can buy a combined ticket, which is cheaper.

What are the Most Common Questions and Misconceptions about the Terminal?

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there high-speed trains (Frecciarossa) in Arquata?

No, Arquata is not part of the high-speed network. The station is classified as a “silver” station and is served only by regional trains. High-speed trains (Frecciarossa) stop only at main stations such as Turin, Milan, and Genoa.

How long does the journey from Arquata to Genoa take?

The journey from Arquata to Genoa takes approximately 45 minutes by train. Trains run approximately every 30 minutes during peak hours and every hour off-peak. This is the most frequent connection from Arquata.

What are the opening hours of the station?

The station is open 24 hours a day, but the ticket office is open only during working hours (usually 5:30–21:00, depending on the day). Ticket machines are available 24/7.

Can I buy a ticket online?

Yes, you can buy tickets online at the Trenitalia website (www.trenitalia.com) or Omio (www.omio.com). You can also buy tickets in the mobile app.

What services are available for persons with disabilities?

The station has partial accessibility for persons with disabilities, including step-free access to some platforms, reserved parking spaces, and adapted toilets. However, no personal assistance service is available on-site. For more information, contact Trenitalia or RFI.

Can I buy a ticket at the station?

Yes, you can buy a ticket at the ticket office or at the machines. Prices are the same whether you buy your ticket in advance or at the station.

Is Arquata station safe?

The station is generally safe, although as with all public places, travelers should be careful with their luggage and personal belongings. The station has a security camera system.

Are there hotels or accommodation near the station?

Arquata is a small town, so accommodation options are limited. The nearest hotels are in Alessandria (approximately 20 km) or in Novi Ligure (approximately 15 km). There are also some smaller guesthouses in Arquata itself.

Misconceptions

Misconception 1: “Arquata is a small station of no importance”

Although Arquata is a smaller station, it has great strategic and logistical significance. It is part of a key transport network connecting Genoa with northern Italy and the Alps. The Interporto di Arquata is also an important logistics center.

Misconception 2: “Trains from Arquata are always delayed”

Although trains are sometimes delayed (as everywhere), trains from Arquata are generally reliable. Trenitalia and Trenord have good punctuality records on this section.

Misconception 3: “It is not possible to buy a ticket at the station”

It is possible to buy a ticket at the station at the ticket office or at the machines. Prices are the same as online.

Misconception 4: “Arquata is too small for travelers”

Although Arquata is small, it offers sufficient facilities for travelers, including waiting rooms, toilets, a shop, and an information desk. If you are planning a journey, Arquata is a suitable place for a transfer.

Misconception 5: “The Terzo Valico project will destroy the historic station”

The Terzo Valico project is designed to preserve and modernize Arquata station. The new project will rather have a positive impact, increasing capacity and improving connections.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the exact address of Arquata station?

Arquata Scrivia station is located at: Piazza della Repubblica 6, 15061 Arquata Scrivia (AL), Italy

How does Arquata station differ from the original station from 1851?

The original station from 1851 was located at a site along Via Roma and was a simple building. The new station was built in 1916 at a different location (at Piazza della Repubblica) and was designed with the new Succursale dei Giovi line in mind. The original building from 1851 has been preserved and is now used as a branch of Carige bank.

What is the difference between the Succursale dei Giovi and the Turin–Genoa railway?

The Turin–Genoa railway is the original line from 1851, which passed through the Giovi Pass with steep gradients of up to 36 per mille. The Succursale dei Giovi is the new line from 1916, which bypasses the pass and has lower gradients (approximately 12.5 per mille), allowing higher speeds and greater capacities.

How many trains run from Arquata per day?

The station is served by approximately 50–60 bidirectional train movements per day, meaning approximately 25–30 trains in each direction.

What does the Interporto di Arquata contain?

The Interporto di Arquata is a logistics center that processes freight transport. It offers storage, cargo handling, a container terminal, and intermodal transport. It processes primarily agricultural products, chemicals, metals, and paper.

When will Terzo Valico be completely finished?

Terzo Valico is a long-term project. The first section (8.5 km) was opened in January 2024. The complete project should be finished in the coming years, with the target being by 2025–2030.

What are the climatic conditions in Arquata?

Arquata has a mild Central European climate with warm summers and cold winters. The average temperature in summer is around 25°C and in winter around 5°C. Rain is most frequent in spring and autumn.

What are the nearest tourist attractions?

Near Arquata you can find:

• Serravalle Scrivia Designer Outlet (approximately 10 km) – fashion and design shops
• Libarna (approximately 15 km) – archaeological site from the Roman era
• Alessandria (approximately 20 km) – historic city with a fortress
• Genoa (approximately 40 km) – port and historic city

What is the best time to visit Arquata?

The best time to visit is spring (March–May) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is mild and not too hot. Summer (June–August) can be hot, and winter (December–February) can be cold and rainy.

What are the ticket prices from Arquata?

Ticket prices vary depending on distance and type of train. Examples:

• Arquata → Genoa: Approximately €4–8 (depending on type of train)
• Arquata → Turin: Approximately €8–15
• Arquata → Milan: Approximately €10–20

Discounts are available for groups, students, and seniors.

Arquata, Italy

Shipping container 20′ First trip, 602 397-0

WITHOUT SHIPPING

59 400 Kč without VAT 71 874 Kč including VAT


ORDER