Portugal Capital City Lisbon Historic Gloria Funicular Cable Car Derails, Killing More Than Fifteen and Shattering Lives in a Tragic Day for the Tourist Metropolis, A History of This Kind of Accidents is Here

Published on September 4, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

In a tragic turn of events, the historic Gloria funicular cable car in Lisbon, Portugal, derailed, killing more than fifteen people and leaving the lives of many shattered. This horrific accident occurred in one of the world’s most beloved tourist cities, forever marking a sorrowful day in Lisbon’s history. The Gloria funicular, a symbol of Lisbon’s transport heritage, was in operation when it lost control and crashed, leaving dozens injured. As one of the most popular tourist attractions, the funicular’s failure on that fateful day has left a deep emotional impact on both locals and visitors alike. The tragic derailment has not only shaken the local community but also raised serious concerns about the safety of funicular systems worldwide. This incident echoes past accidents that have occurred with similar transportation systems in other cities, highlighting the critical need for improved safety protocols and better monitoring. While investigations continue to uncover the exact cause, the loss of life and the emotional trauma for the victims’ families are undeniable. Lisbon, known for its beauty and charm, will forever carry the memory of this heart-wrenching disaster, prompting a reevaluation of funicular safety worldwide.

A devastating incident occurred in Lisbon when the famous Gloria funicular derailed and crashed, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 people, including tourists. The accident took place during the evening rush hour, leaving many injured. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, which occurred on the popular tourist route.

Derailed Funicular Causes Devastating Loss of Life

On a tragic day in Lisbon, a much-loved funicular railway, the Gloria, derailed and crashed, killing at least 15 people and injuring around 18 more. This incident shocked both locals and tourists, as the funicular was a popular transport method in the city. It runs along a narrow street, offering stunning views of Lisbon’s historic areas. Authorities confirmed that among the victims, there were foreign nationals, though their identities and nationalities remain undisclosed.

The Gloria funicular, known locally as Elevador da Glória, was transporting passengers up one of Lisbon’s many steep hills. At around 6 p.m. on the evening of the accident, disaster struck. The funicular reportedly lost control and derailed before crashing into a nearby building. The impact left the yellow-and-white car on its side, partially crumpled, and laying in the road.

Heroic Rescue Efforts Amid Devastation

Emergency teams arrived quickly at the scene, working tirelessly to rescue those trapped inside the wrecked car. Several witnesses described the chaotic moments before the crash. Teresa d’Avó, one such witness, explained how the passengers inside were visibly scared as they tried to help one another. “Soon after, we saw the cart upstairs was out of control, without brakes, and we all started running away because we thought it was going to hit the one below,” she said. Her quick thinking and the response of others helped mitigate the full scale of the disaster.

Within hours of the accident, several emergency response teams were on-site, working to rescue survivors and secure the area. However, after about two hours, most emergency teams had to stand down, as the situation seemed under control. The area was quickly cleared for an investigation into the cause of the derailment.

Gloria Funicular’s Role in Lisbon’s Tourism Industry

Lisbon’s Gloria funicular is an iconic part of the city’s transportation system. The funicular is used by both residents and tourists, often serving as a convenient way to travel up one of Lisbon’s famous hills. The ride offers passengers sweeping views of the historic Baixa district, making it a must-do experience for visitors. The funicular has become a symbol of Lisbon’s heritage, being a part of the city’s landscape since the late 19th century.

Known for its distinctive yellow-and-white design, the funicular has served millions of passengers over the years, offering a quick ride through the heart of the city. It runs parallel with another funicular, the Bica, and these two lines are crucial to navigating Lisbon’s hilly terrain. The funicular’s route is also located near many important landmarks, including the vibrant Bairro Alto neighborhood.

National Mourning in Lisbon Following the Tragedy

Following the tragic event, Lisbon entered a period of mourning. Carlos Moedas, the mayor of Lisbon, expressed his sorrow publicly, stating, “It’s a tragic day for our city… Lisbon is in mourning.” The city’s residents and officials have since rallied together, offering their support to the victims’ families and those injured in the accident. The national government has also extended condolences to the victims’ families, including foreign nationals.

Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa also offered heartfelt sympathy to the families affected by the tragedy. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen sent her condolences in a message on social media, calling the event a “tragic accident.” As the city tries to recover from the shock, the support from the community has been overwhelming.

Investigation Underway to Determine Cause of the Accident

Authorities have begun an investigation into the cause of the Gloria funicular’s derailment. The Portuguese government confirmed that the investigation would proceed once the rescue operation was completed. While the exact cause of the crash is still unknown, reports suggest that the incident occurred at the start of the evening rush hour, making it particularly dangerous.

At this stage, officials have not ruled out any factors, such as mechanical failure, operator error, or external issues that might have contributed to the crash. While the investigation continues, transport experts are keen to examine the funicular’s maintenance history, as well as how its safety systems functioned in the moments leading up to the incident.

Funicular railways are an important part of many cities and tourist destinations worldwide. They provide a way for people to travel up steep hills or mountains. But, over the years, there have been tragic accidents that have raised serious safety concerns. This article will explore some of the most significant funicular accidents from around the world, how they happened, and the lessons that have been learned from them.

Kaprun Disaster (Austria, 2000): The Deadliest Funicular Tragedy

The Kaprun disaster in Austria was the deadliest funicular accident in history. On November 11, 2000, the Gletscherbahn Kaprun 2 funicular, which took passengers up a mountain, caught fire in a tunnel. The fire started when a faulty fan heater ignited flammable hydraulic fluid. Tragically, 155 people died in the blaze, including tourists and locals. Many of the victims were trapped inside the train as it was unable to stop due to a lack of proper emergency procedures.

The tragedy happened because the train’s design was outdated. It lacked essential safety features, such as smoke detectors and fire-resistant materials. The accident prompted a complete overhaul of safety regulations in Austria and across Europe. Following this, authorities demanded better fire safety systems in all cable cars and funiculars. The incident also sparked public awareness about the importance of regular maintenance and emergency protocols for such transportation systems.

Lisbon Gloria Funicular Derailment (Portugal, 2025): A Devastating Event

On September 3, 2025, Lisbon’s Gloria funicular, a popular tourist attraction, derailed during the evening rush hour. The accident caused at least 15 deaths and around 18 injuries. The cause of the crash was believed to be a malfunction in the overhead cable system, which caused the funicular to lose control and crash into a nearby building. It was an extremely tragic event for the city of Lisbon, which entered a period of mourning following the disaster.

The Gloria funicular had been a familiar part of Lisbon for many years. Known for its yellow-and-white design, it was a popular way for tourists to see the city’s beautiful hills. The accident raised questions about the maintenance and safety of such systems, especially those used by large numbers of people every day. After the crash, the Portuguese authorities began a full investigation into the cause of the malfunction and have promised to implement stronger safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

Tbilisi Cable Car Crash (Georgia, 2010): Mechanical Failure Leads to Casualties

In 2010, another tragic incident occurred in Tbilisi, Georgia. A cable car system in the city malfunctioned, causing two gondolas to collide. This mechanical failure led to 19 deaths and injuries to at least 42 people. The incident was caused by a breakdown in the ropeway system, which resulted in the gondolas losing control and colliding with each other mid-flight.

This accident highlighted the importance of regular maintenance and the need for safety inspections of all mechanical systems in cable cars and funiculars. Following the crash, Georgia’s government took immediate action to implement stricter regulations for the cable car system, including more frequent safety checks and improved monitoring. The incident also served as a wake-up call for many countries, reinforcing the importance of safety in tourism-related transportation.

Angels Flight Accidents (USA, 2001 & 2013): Design Flaws and Safety Concerns

Angels Flight in Los Angeles is one of the oldest funicular systems in the United States, but it has had its fair share of problems. In 2001, a fatal accident occurred when one of the funicular’s cars lost control and rolled downhill, resulting in one death and multiple injuries. Investigations revealed that the design of the funicular lacked some critical safety features, such as proper track brakes and a safety cable.

In 2013, another accident occurred when a car derailed, although there were no fatalities. However, it highlighted ongoing concerns about the safety of the funicular. After both incidents, Angels Flight underwent several safety upgrades. These included the installation of track brakes and an overhaul of the emergency systems. These improvements were crucial in restoring public confidence in the safety of this funicular system.

Other Notable Funicular Accidents

• Funicular de Santiago (Chile, 1998): In 1998, a serious accident occurred when one of the funicular’s cars crashed. This incident was caused by late brake activation. Several passengers were injured, and a park employee was severely hurt. The investigation revealed that the train’s braking system was faulty. This incident led to improved safety standards and better maintenance practices for all funicular systems in Chile.
• Funicular in Georgia (2013): A funicular accident in Georgia in 2013 injured eight people, including several Japanese tourists. The cause of the accident was traced back to faulty equipment. It was a reminder of the need for regular inspections and prompt repairs. Following this incident, Georgia’s funicular systems were upgraded, and more resources were allocated to ensure passenger safety.

Safety Lessons and Reforms Post-Accidents

The history of funicular accidents serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of safety in public transport systems. Many of the accidents detailed above occurred due to poor maintenance, outdated designs, or mechanical failures. These incidents showed how vulnerable passengers can be when funicular systems do not meet modern safety standards.

After each major accident, countries around the world have taken steps to improve safety protocols for funicular railways and cable cars. These reforms have included:

• Improved Safety Features: After the Kaprun disaster, many funicular systems added better fire detection and emergency evacuation plans.
• Regular Inspections and Maintenance: Governments and authorities have made regular inspections mandatory to identify and fix potential issues before they lead to accidents.
• Enhanced Training for Operators: Ensuring that operators are well-trained in emergency response procedures has been another key reform. This is crucial in preventing accidents caused by human error.

The Future of Funiculars: Balancing Safety and Tradition

Despite the tragedies that have occurred, funiculars remain an important part of many cities and tourist destinations worldwide. These systems offer efficient transportation, especially in hilly or mountainous areas. However, there is an ongoing need to balance tradition with modern safety standards. Many historic funiculars, such as those in Lisbon and Los Angeles, are beloved by tourists for their charm and uniqueness. But these systems must evolve to meet modern safety standards without losing their historical value.

Governments and operators must continue to work together to ensure that funiculars remain safe while preserving their cultural significance. This may involve updating old systems with new technology, improving safety equipment, and training operators more effectively. With the right safety measures in place, funiculars can continue to serve as a safe and enjoyable means of transportation for both locals and tourists.

Funicular accidents, though rare, have shown us the critical importance of safety in public transportation systems. Each disaster has provided valuable lessons that have led to safer operations and better regulations. Moving forward, it is crucial for governments and operators to continue focusing on safety, maintenance, and the modernization of these systems. With ongoing reforms and vigilance, the tragic accidents of the past can help shape a safer future for funicular railways worldwide.

Impact on Lisbon’s Transport and Tourism Landscape

This tragic incident raises serious questions about the safety of Lisbon’s iconic funicular systems. The Gloria funicular has long been a fixture of Lisbon’s transportation network, but its future now faces scrutiny. The incident is likely to spark a re-evaluation of safety procedures for public transport in the city, particularly those involving vintage and high-traffic routes like the funiculars.

Lisbon’s tourism industry, heavily reliant on these cultural and historical attractions, may face significant challenges as well. Visitors come to the city specifically to experience its unique transport systems, which contribute to the charm of the city. However, safety concerns arising from this tragic event could make some tourists hesitant to use these attractions in the future.

As investigations continue, it remains to be seen how this disaster will affect the city’s tourism industry in the long term. The Gloria funicular, like many of Lisbon’s historical landmarks, is woven into the fabric of the city’s identity, and its future may be uncertain as the full scale of the incident is understood.