On the morning of September 3, the bright yellow carriage of Lisbon’s iconic Gloria Funicular toppled off the tracks during its steep climb from Restauradores Square to the Principe Real district. Local media reported at least 15 people lost their lives and 18 others were injured in the derailment, sending shockwaves through Portugal’s capital.
This isn’t the first time the Gloria Funicular has faced danger. Back in 2018, a similar incident saw a carriage derail along the same slope—but miraculously, no one was hurt that day. Since its launch in the late 19th century, the funicular has been both a practical link up Lisbon’s hills and a photogenic magnet for tourists.
With its bright yellow cars climbing a steep hillside, the setup attracts hundreds of passengers a day, from commuters to digital nomads hunting perfect Instagram shots. Modern safety standards have been retrofitted over time, but this latest crash raises fresh concerns about the maintenance of historic urban transport systems worldwide.
Lisbon’s city hall has halted all operations pending a full investigation into the possible mechanical or track failure. In a city known for its hilly tram routes and historic charms, residents and visitors alike now wonder how long the iconic ride will remain out of service—and what upgrades could prevent such a disaster in the future.
This tragic event underscores the challenge cities face when preserving century-old landmarks without compromising safety. For young travelers, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders around the world, it’s a reminder that heritage and innovation must go hand in hand. What do you think should be the next steps for the Gloria Funicular?
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
