Lisbon, September 4, 2025 — On the evening of September 3, tragedy struck Lisbon when one of the cars of the historic Ascensor da Glória (Glória Funicular) derailed during rush hour, crashing into a building near the lower terminus and claiming the lives of 17 people while injuring 21 others.
The Incident
The accident occurred around 18:05 local time on the steep slope between Restauradores Square and Bairro Alto. The upper car plummeted out of control, smashing into a building, while the other car jolted but remained intact—its passengers reportedly fleeing through windows in panic. Eyewitnesses spoke of the car “picking up brutal speed” before the catastrophic impact.
Casualties and the Human Cost
Emergency services confirmed that 15 individuals died at the scene, while two more succumbed to their injuries in hospital, bringing the total to 17 fatalities. The wounded included citizens from Portugal, Germany, Spain, South Korea, Cape Verde, Canada, Italy, France, Switzerland, and Morocco. Among the first identified victims was the brakeman, André Marques.
Response & Mourning
The Portuguese government declared Thursday, September 4, a national day of mourning, with flags flown at half-mast. Additionally, Lisbon’s municipal authorities announced three days of local mourning, underscoring the gravity of this calamity. All funicular operations were suspended pending safety inspections, and investigations were launched by the municipal operator, the rail accident prevention office, and the national police.
Possible Cause
Preliminary findings point to a failure of a haulage cable that caused the car to lose control and derail. Officials emphasized that all maintenance protocols had been followed, noting that the most recent general servicing occurred in 2022, with the last detailed inspection conducted in late 2024.
Cultural Significance of the Glória Funicular
The Glória Funicular, inaugurated in 1885, serves as both a vital public transport line and a cherished historical monument, linking downtown Lisbon with Bairro Alto. Typically carrying over three million passengers annually, it remains an enduring symbol of the city.
In Summary
| Detail | Key Facts |
|---|---|
| When & where | Evening of September 3, 2025, Glória Funicular, Lisbon |
| Casualties | 17 dead, 21 injured |
| Likely cause | Broken haulage cable; investigation ongoing |
| Response | National mourning (1 day), Lisbon mourning (3 days); service suspended |
| Maintenance history | Up-to-date checks through 2024; protocols followed |
| Heritage importance | In operation since 1885; carries over 3 million passengers yearly |
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