Bica Funicular (Ascensor da Bica)
The Ascensor da Bica runs through the Santa Catarina in the Barrio Alto district of the Portuguese capital.
It is one of Lisbon's most popular elevadors connecting Rua de São Paulo with Largo Calhariz up a steep slope with excellent views.
The funicular is operated by Carris who also run the buses and trams in Lisbon.
History
The Ascensor da Bica was designed by Raul Mesnier de Ponsard, an engineer from Porto, who was an apprentice of Gustave Eiffel.
Ponsard also designed the Glória Funicular, the Elevador de Santa Justa (Santa Justa Lift), the Elevador do Lavra and the funicular up to Bom Jesus do Monte just outside Braga.
The elevador opened in 1892 and was initially steam powered. However an accident in 1916 caused the system to close and it did not return to operation until 1923.
The elevador is now electrically-powered and two carriages travel the distance at the same time in opposite directions.
Schedule
The funicular (53E) runs approximately every 10 to 15 minutes from Monday to Saturday 7 am to 9 pm and on
Sunday and public holidays from 9 am to 9 pm.
At the top it is a short walk to the Miradouro de Santa Catarina, with views over the city from this famous viewpoint. The Museu da Farmácia is also in this area of Lisbon. At the bottom on Rua de São Paulo you are close to Cais do Sodré Station. Buses 25E, 714 and 774 run along Rua de São Paulo. The Museu das Comunicações is a 10 minute walk west of Cais do Sodré.
Fares
The Viva Viagem Card and Lisboa Card can both be used.
Elevador da Bica
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