At least 15 people were killed and 18 injured after Lisbon’s Elevador da Gloria funicular derailed during rush hour. Officials confirmed some victims were foreign nationals, while emergency crews worked through the night to clear the wreckage. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Funicular Crash in Lisbon Leaves 15 Dead
Police and firefighters work at the site of a funicular accident in Lisbon on September 3, 2025 [Patricia De Melo Moreira/AFP]

President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa conveyed his sadness, referring to it as “a tragedy.” Mayor Carlos Moedas referred to it as a terrible day for the city, which has experienced growth in tourism over recent years.

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Cause of the Funicular Crash

According to Lisbon’s Firefighters Regiment, a loose cable caused the funicular to lose control and crash into a building. The accident occurred shortly after 6 p.m., when both cars were operating on the steep hillside railway.

The lower carriage sustained minor damage, while the upper one was destroyed. Meanwhile, firefighters and paramedics worked quickly to rescue trapped passengers and stabilize survivors.

History and Significance of Elevador da Gloria

Opened in 1885, the Elevador da Gloria is one of Lisbon’s most historic hillside transport lines. Operated by Carris, it connects the Baixa district with Bairro Alto, offering scenic views of Portugal’s capital.

Further, it continues to be one of the favorite attractions for locals and visitors alike. Wednesday’s disaster was one of the most fatal transportation accidents in Portugal in recent times, for which authorities are looking into safety procedures.

Source: www.aljazeera.com

What caused the Lisbon funicular crash?

Authorities reported that a loose cable made the Lisbon funicular derail and hit a building, killing 15 people and injuring 18. There are ongoing investigations.

How old is the Elevador da Gloria?

The Elevador da Gloria opened originally in 1885. It is still one of Lisbon’s old transportation systems, linking downtown Baixa and Bairro Alto.

Is the Elevador da Gloria popular with tourists?

Yes. The funicular draws thousands of visitors every year because it offers both functional transportation and panoramic vistas of Lisbon’s historic center.

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