At least 15 people lost their lives and 18 others were injured on Wednesday evening when Lisbon’s historic funicular, the Elevador da Glória, derailed, Portuguese authorities confirmed. Five of the injured are reported to be in critical condition.
According to the Lisbon Firefighters Regiment, the accident occurred shortly after 6 pm local time when a cable reportedly snapped, causing the funicular to lose control and crash into a nearby building. Both passengers aboard the derailed car and pedestrians in the vicinity were among the casualties.
The Elevador da Glória, a century-old cable railway built in 1885, is one of Lisbon’s most iconic transportation systems. Connecting Restauradores Square to the scenic Bairro Alto neighborhood, the funicular climbs steep hills and serves both residents and the city’s millions of annual tourists. Each tram car has a capacity of 42 passengers and is operated by Carris, Lisbon’s public transport operator.
Tiago Augusto, head of Portugal’s Health Ministry, stated that the victims included both Portuguese citizens and foreigners, though nationalities have yet to be confirmed. He also noted that no children were among those who died.
By 8:30 pm local time, all injured individuals had been transported to hospitals. Six people, including one child and a seriously injured individual, were admitted to Santa Maria Hospital. Nine others, five in critical condition, were taken to São José Hospital.
Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas described the incident as a “tragic moment” for the city. In a social media post, he said: “Lisbon is in mourning. This is a tragic moment for the city. The teams from CML – Firefighters Sappers Regiment, Civil Protection and Municipal Police – as well as the Volunteer Firefighters, the PSP, and INEM, are on the scene providing assistance. The victims have been taken to the hospital. I deeply regret the lives lost and all the suffering caused.”
The Mayor announced three days of municipal mourning for the victims, expressing condolences to families and friends affected by the tragedy.
The Elevador da Glória, while rarely used by locals, remains a beloved symbol of Lisbon and a major tourist attraction, offering scenic rides through the city’s historic neighborhoods.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)