Lisbon Funicular Derailment Leaves 17 Dead, Prompts National Mourning

Lisbon was struck by tragedy on Wednesday evening when the historic Elevador da Glória funicular derailed on its steep route between Restauradores Square and Bairro Alto, killing at least 17 people and injuring more than 20. The disaster, one of the deadliest transport accidents in Portugal’s recent history, has led the government to declare a national day of mourning, while Lisbon’s mayor announced three days of local remembrance.

The accident occurred around 6 p.m., when the yellow and white tram lost control and careened downhill before crashing violently into a building. Witnesses described the vehicle “folding like cardboard” as it smashed at high speed, leaving passengers trapped inside. Emergency responders rushed to the site, deploying over 60 personnel and 22 vehicles. All victims were recovered within two hours, but several survivors remain in critical condition, including a child and foreign nationals.

Authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the derailment. Preliminary reports suggest a loose cable may have disconnected the carriage from its guiding mechanism, leaving the tram without brakes. Portugal’s transport operator Carris maintained that the funicular had undergone routine maintenance and inspections prior to the crash.

In the immediate aftermath, the Lisbon city council suspended operations of all funiculars and the Santa Justa Lift pending safety checks. National leaders expressed grief and solidarity with the victims’ families, while condolences poured in from across Europe.

The Elevador da Glória, operating since 1885, is both a vital public transport link and a tourist attraction. Its derailment not only shocked Lisbon but also raised urgent questions over the safety of the city’s century-old heritage transport systems.