Lisbon Funicular Crash Claims 17 Lives, Dozens Injured
A tragic scene unfolded in Lisbon this week when one of the city’s most beloved tourist attractions, the historic Elevador da Glória funicular, derailed and crashed. What began as an ordinary ride up one of Lisbon’s steepest hills turned into the country’s worst transport disaster in recent memory. The accident has left 17 people dead and 21 others injured, including visitors from across the globe.
The crash happened early Wednesday evening, right around rush hour, when the funicular was crowded with both tourists and locals. Witnesses said the car appeared to lose control, sliding at high speed down the narrow street before smashing violently into a building on a sharp bend. The impact was described as devastating—metal crumpled as if it were cardboard, and the sound of the crash echoed through the busy Avenida da Liberdade nearby.
Rescue teams rushed to the scene within minutes, working under enormous pressure to free trapped passengers. Every victim was pulled from the wreckage within just over two hours. Sadly, some lives could not be saved. Among those killed was the funicular’s brakeman, André Marques, who had been on duty when the disaster struck. The loss has been felt deeply by his colleagues and Lisbon’s transport workers’ union.
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The Elevador da Glória, first opened in 1885, has long been more than just a mode of transport—it is a cultural symbol and even a national monument. Tourists often line up for hours to take its short but picturesque ride between the bustling Restauradores Square and the lively Bairro Alto district. Its charm lies in its old-world design, the bright yellow-and-white exterior, and the steep climb that offers one of the best city views. That same charm, however, has now been overshadowed by grief.
Portugal declared a national day of mourning on Thursday, lowering flags to half-staff and holding moments of silence. Leaders across Europe, including those at the European Parliament, sent messages of condolence. President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and Lisbon’s mayor, Carlos Moedas, both described the accident as a tragedy that has left the entire nation shaken.
Investigators have begun carefully examining the wreckage, photographing the rails and machinery in hopes of understanding what went wrong. While speculation has circulated about possible brake failure or a snapped cable, officials have urged patience, emphasizing that no conclusions will be drawn until the investigation is complete.
For now, Lisbon’s other historic funiculars have been suspended as a precaution while safety checks are carried out. The operator, Carris, has confirmed that regular maintenance had been performed on the Elevador da Glória, but has pledged to cooperate fully with authorities and to ensure nothing like this happens again.
What makes this tragedy especially poignant is the mix of nationalities among the victims. Passengers from Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Switzerland, Canada, Morocco, South Korea, and Cape Verde were among those injured, a reflection of just how many people from around the world come to Lisbon to experience its famous streetcars.
It is a heartbreaking reminder that even attractions steeped in history and joy can, in a single moment, become the scene of sorrow. Lisbon, a city known for its warmth and hospitality, is now facing one of its darkest days, united in grief and in the search for answers.
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