Lisbon’s iconic Gloria funicular derails, leaving one dead and dozens injured

03 September 2025 , 20:55

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Lisbon’s iconic Gloria funicular derails, leaving one dead and dozens injured

The cable car was carrying tourists at the Gloria Funicular in Lisbon at the time of the crash - an attraction that is popular among tourists visiting the Portuguese city.

Initial reports suggest the crash resulted from a cable coming loose, according to local reports.

Two of those injured are now said to be in ’critical condition’ in hospital, with five others receiving treatment for less serious injuries.

The vibrant yellow funicular tram line is one of three kinds seen throughout the Portuguese capital and has become an iconic symbol of the city.

#BREAKING:

????At least one person dead and up to 20 injured after the Elevador da Glória funicular derailed in the center of #Lisbon, #Portugal. pic.twitter.com/1zlNyyQDQ9

— Jahangir (@jahangir_sid) September 3, 2025

Footage from the scene shows plumes of smoke and dust clouding the city’s narrow streets.

Locals and tourists can be seen wandering around dazed, with a crowd growing beside the wreck of the cable car.

As the smoke clears from the city streets, the twisted metal frame of the tram can be seen lying at the bottom of a hill. 

Police, paramedics, and firefighters were at the scene minutes after the crash took place.

The yellow funicular opened in 1885 - the second in the city to be pulled by cables.

The route was only later electrified, with the adaptation taking place in 1915.

Police remain at the scene, with the wreckage currently in situ, lying against the wall at the point where the iconic street curves.

James Smith

Editor-in-Chief