The Glória funicular is only 265 meters long, but is appreciated by both residents and tourists who thereby avoid one of central Lisbon's steepest hills.
However, at around 19:00 on Wednesday, something went very wrong. One of the cars lost control, rushed down towards Restauradores Square, derailed and crashed into a building.
15 people on board have been found dead, while the number of injured is around 20.
Cable may have burst
The wreckage was so badly damaged that the police and rescue services had to work far into the night before they were sure that all the deceased had been recovered.
Firefighters on the scene have two theories about the cause of the accident, according to Portuguese media. Partly, one of the cables that pulls and holds the cars appears to have burst, and partly the brakes may have failed.
Public transport company Carris states that the funiculars have been serviced as they should be. "Maintenance every month and every week, as well as daily inspections, are carried out carefully", according to a statement.
Three days of mourning
As a precaution, traffic has nonetheless been suspended indefinitely on all funiculars in central Lisbon. In addition to Glória, this concerns Elevador do Lavra and Elevador da Bica. All are from the late 19th century.
The capital has declared three days of mourning, while the Portuguese government announces that Thursday is a national day of mourning.
There is no information that Swedes are involved in the accident. TT has contacted the Foreign Ministry regarding the matter.
