Glória Funicular (Ascensor da Glória)
The Glória Funicular, aka Elevador da Glória is one of Lisbon's popular elevadors (funiculars) and the busiest.
The Glória Funicular goes from Praça dos Restauradores near Restauradores Station up the Calçada da Glória to the Jardim António Nobre of São Pedro de Alcântara in the Barrio Alto district. From here there are superb views over the city as far as Alfama and Lisbon Castle.
This area of Bairro Alto is close to the Church of São Roque and the adjacent museum of São Roque. Also nearby here is the Convento de São Pedro de Alcântara.
The funicular is operated by Carris who also run the buses and trams in Lisbon.
History
The Glória Funicular was designed by Raul Mesnier de Ponsard, an engineer from Porto, who was an apprentice of Gustave Eiffel.
Ponsard was also responsible for the Ascensor da Bica, Elevador do Lavra, the Elevador de Santa Justa (Santa Justa Lift), and the funicular up to Bom Jesus do Monte just outside Braga.
The elevador was originally water-powered when it opened in 1885. It became steam-powered the following year. It was converted to run on electricity by 1915.
Ascensor da Glória Derailment
On 3 September 2025, the Ascensor da Glória funicular derailed during the evening rush hour due to a loose cable, killing 16 people and injuring 18 others of the approximately 40 people on board at the time of the accident. The vehicle crashed into a building and was very badly damaged in the crash, ending up lying on its side.
Schedule
The funicular runs approximately every 10 to 15 minutes from 7.15 am to 11.55 pm Monday to Thursday; 7.15 am to 12.25 am on Friday and 8.45 am to 12.25 am on Saturday. It runs from 9.15 am to 11.55 pm on Sunday and public holidays.
Fares
The Viva Viagem Card and Lisboa Card can both be used on the funicular.
Elevador da Glória
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