Lisbon’s historic Gloria Funicular to reopen in 2029 with redesigned system

Lisbon’s iconic Gloria Funicular will not return to service in its old form. Authorities say the attraction will reopen in 2029 with a completely new structure, following the derailment that killed 16 people.

The accident occurred on Sept. 3, 2025, leaving dozens injured and destroying both cars that made up the funicular. The electrical system also suffered serious damage, according to Rui Lopo, director general of Carris, the company that operates it.

An investigation identified several irregularities. The cable connecting the two cars did not comply with regulations for passenger transport, and investigators also pointed to negligence in maintenance. Those findings ruled out simply restoring the previous system.

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It is a process that requires broad reflection to preserve one of the city’s symbols and ensure that it meets the best practices in safety, risk management, technology, maintenance and operation.

Instead, Lisbon will begin an international public tender process. The tender is expected to open in the first quarter of 2027, when authorities will seek a suitable technical solution for the replacement system.

Lopo said the project requires broad reflection to preserve one of the city’s symbols while meeting high standards for safety, risk management, technology, maintenance and operation. Lisbon’s deputy mayor said the planned model should combine technical strength and absolute safety with effective public transport and improvements to the surrounding public space.

Authorities have not announced the project’s cost or financing. Other similar lifts in Lisbon also remain closed while their operating systems undergo safety checks, but officials have not set reopening dates for them.

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It is a model that is technically robust on the one hand and guarantees absolute efficiency and safety on the other, following international best practices.