The contract between the Greek government and the Hellenic Company of Lavrion Metallurgies was signed in 1882.

The line would connect downtown Athens to Eastern Attica terminating at the mining town of Lavrion, with a branch line from Heraklion to Kifissia.

[1] The line from Attiki station[2] to Kifissia (a northern suburb) was opened on February 2, 1885, and was later extended further north to Stofyli.

The total length of the lines operated by Attica Railways was 76 kilometres (47 mi).

The main rolling stock depot and repair workshop were located at Attiki station, with additional facilities at Lavrion.