At least 15 people lost their lives and 18 others were injured on Wednesday evening when Lisbon’s historic Elevador da Gloria funicular derailed and crashed into a building, according to Portugal’s health ministry.
Authorities confirmed that five of the injured remain in critical condition. The accident occurred shortly after 6 pm (local time), when a cable reportedly snapped, causing the tram to lose control, the Lisbon Firefighters Regiment told The New York Times.
The Elevador da Gloria, built in 1885, is one of Lisbon’s most recognised landmarks, connecting Restauradores Square with the Bairro Alto neighbourhood. Operated by Carris, the two-car system is a popular tourist attraction, carrying both locals and visitors up the city’s steep hills. Each tram can hold up to 42 passengers.
Tiago Augusto, head of Portugal’s health ministry, said the victims included both Portuguese nationals and foreign tourists, though their nationalities have not yet been released. No children were among the dead. Casualties included both passengers on board and pedestrians nearby when the derailment occurred.
By 8:30 pm, all injured had been taken to hospitals. Six people, including one child, were admitted to Santa Maria Hospital, while nine others — five in critical condition — were treated at São José Hospital.
Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas described the crash as a “tragic moment” for the city and announced three days of municipal mourning.
“Lisbon is in mourning. I deeply regret the lives lost and the suffering caused. Our priority now is to support the families, assist the injured, and provide all necessary aid,” Moedas wrote on X.
The Elevador da Gloria, usually seen as a charming symbol of Lisbon’s heritage, is now at the centre of one of the deadliest accidents in the city’s recent history.
