Disaster on the Gloria Elevator in Lisbon: 15 fatalities after derailment

The Elevador da Glória, a cherished piece of Lisbon's cultural heritage, was the site of a devastating accident on the evening of September 3, 2025. This historic elevator, which has been operating since its inauguration on October 24, 1885, designed by engineer Raul Mesnier de Ponsard, has served more than three million people each year.

The incident resulted in several casualties, with reports of lives lost, including some foreign nationals. The Lisbon City Council promptly declared three days of municipal mourning for the victims. The Portuguese government, in a show of national solidarity, declared a day of national mourning on Thursday.

Seven injured individuals were taken to Sao Jose Hospital, with five of them in critical condition. Three other injured were transferred to Santa Maria Hospital. Tragically, several people remain trapped, and the Judicial Police are investigating the incident for potential criminal material.

The Portuguese General Prosecutor's Office (Generalstaatsanwaltschaft in Lissabon) is currently conducting a thorough technical investigation into the cause of the accident. A detailed report is expected in approximately 45 days, with a final report due within a year. In addition, mobility and transport authorities will conduct an inspection of the derailment.

The Elevador da Glória, originally powered by a water counterweight mechanism, later switched to steam traction in 1915 and then to electric energy. From 1913 to 1926, the Elevador da Glória was the venue for the "Subida a Glória" cycling race. In 2002, it was designated a National Monument.

The Elevador da Glória connects Restauradores Square and the Sao Pedro de Alcantara viewpoint in Lisbon, offering a journey 265 meters long and taking a total of three minutes. As the city grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event, the focus remains on providing support to the affected individuals and families, while awaiting the results of the ongoing investigations.