Elevador do Lavra (Ascensor do Lavra)
The Elevador do Lavra was the first street funicular in the world when it was built in 1884.
It connects Largo da Anunciada with Rua Câmara Pestana over just 188 metres.
The funicular is operated by Carris who also run the buses and trams in Lisbon.
History
The Elevador do Lavra 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 Ascensor Bica, and the funicular up to Bom Jesus do Monte just outside Braga.
The elevador opened in 1884 and was initially powered by a water counterweight system, later by steam and in 1915 it was electrified.
Schedule
The Ascensor Lavra runs approximately every 10 to 15 minutes from Monday to Saturday 7.50 am to 7.55 pm and on Sunday and public holidays from 9 am to 7.55 pm.
At the top it is a short walk along the Travessa do Torel to Jardim do Torel, with views over the city.
At the bottom on Rua de Santo Antão is the Casa do Alentejo set in a grand Moorish-styled mansion. There's a dining room, cafe bar and a stylish, though slightly faded ballroom with chandeliers.
This area of Lisbon has a number of places to stay including the Torel Palace, the Elevator Hostel and Palácio de Sant'Anna.
Fares
The Viva Viagem Card and Lisboa Card can both be used.
Elevador da Bica
Book Air Tickets to Portugal & Spain
Lisbon Hotels
Hotels in Portugal - Booking.com
Hotels in Lisbon - Booking.com
Lisbon Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, Tramcars, and Yellow Boat River Tour