Lisbon, Portugal — A tragic accident involving a historic funicular railway has claimed at least 15 lives and left 18 others injured in the heart of the city. The Glória Funicular, which has operated since 1885, derailed during the busy evening rush hour, sending emergency teams scrambling to assist those trapped.
Rescue efforts were swift, with 62 personnel and 22 vehicles deployed to the scene as emergency crews worked to extricate victims from the wreckage of the popular tourist attraction. Many of those injured were reportedly in serious condition, including a child. Authorities have not yet published information regarding the identities or nationalities of the victims, although some foreign nationals were among those affected.
Mayor Carlos Moedas declared three days of municipal mourning for the victims and expressed his heartfelt condolences to their families. “This is a tragic day for the city,” he said in a statement, emphasizing the urgency of the rescue operations.
The derailment is currently under investigation, with local police looking into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Witnesses described the chaotic scene, recalling how those aboard the funicular were understandably terrified as it veered off track and crashed into a nearby building.
As the aftermath of the accident unfolded, municipal authorities suspended operations of all other funiculars in the city, including Bica, Lavra, and Graça, to conduct safety inspections. Public Security Police have advised locals and tourists to avoid the crash site to facilitate the ongoing emergency response.
The Glória Funicular itself is a beloved feature of Lisbon’s landscape, connecting the bustling Praça dos Restauradores with the lively Bairro Alto district. Designed originally to ease steep slopes, it has become an iconic symbol of the city’s charm. The funicular operates on a short 265-meter route, carrying passengers uphill in just under three minutes.
Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa expressed his sorrow over the incident, declaring his solidarity with the victims and their families. “It is a moment of great sadness for our country,” he noted, pressing for answers on how such a tragedy could occur.
As emergency services continue their work, the community rallies in support of the victims. Local leaders, including European Council President António Costa, conveyed their condolences and commitment to helping Lisbon recover from this devastating event.
Authorities are urging the public to remain patient as updates about the investigation and the condition of the injured are made available. The city mourns today, grappling with the impact of a disaster that struck without warning.