Lisbon's Gloria Funicular: A Historic Ride with a Dark Day
A Devastating Accident
Lisbon's beloved Gloria funicular, a cherished city landmark, recently experienced a tragic accident. At least 17 people lost their lives, and over 20 were injured when one of its cars derailed and crashed. This incident stands as one of the worst transport accidents in the city's history.
The Gloria Funicular: A City Icon
The Gloria funicular, or "Ascensor da Gloria," runs along Calçada da Gloria street. It is one of three funicular lines in Lisbon, a city renowned for its steep hills. The Gloria line is the most popular, especially among tourists. It connects the downtown area to São Pedro de Alcântara's terrace, offering breathtaking city views, and to Bairro Alto, famous for its vibrant nightlife.
A Glimpse into Its History and Design
- Built in 1885, the line initially used a water counterweight system before transitioning to steam power and eventually being electrified in 1914.
- The funicular's cars are painted a bright yellow, mirroring Lisbon's iconic trams.
- Each year, around 3 million people use the Gloria line.
- The two cars, numbered 1 and 2, were built by a German company and can each carry about 40 passengers.
- The route is 265 meters long, with a steep slope of over 17%.
- In 2002, the line was registered as a national monument, underscoring its historical significance.
Safety Measures and Past Incidents
Safety is a top priority for the municipal public transport company Carris. They stated that all maintenance protocols have been followed. The line was even shut down in May for four days of maintenance. However, a derailment occurred in 2018 due to a technical problem with the cable, though no one was injured.
Questions Raised and the Path Forward
The recent accident raises questions about the safety measures in place. While the cause is still under investigation, it's clear that more needs to be done to ensure the safety of passengers. The Gloria funicular is a vital part of Lisbon's transport system and a symbol of the city's history. It's crucial that it continues to operate safely for both locals and tourists to enjoy.