Lisbon, the Portuguese capital, is famous for its hills. Seven, actually. In addition to the beauty, after all the city was built on and among them, you have to be willing to climb in some places. Thinking about improving the movement of citizens, elevators and lifts were built in the city between the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th.
For this reason, over a hundred years ago, elevators and lifts were built to take the population to the highest points. Of course, they also lead in the opposite direction, to the lower parts. Do you want to know what they are and venture out on your wanderings and discoveries around Lisbon?
Santa Justa Elevator
The best-known in the Portuguese capital, it was opened on June 10, 1902 and connects Rua do Ouro (in the Baixa) to Largo do Carmo, in the upper part. Built to avoid a large loop to move between the upper and lower part of the center, the elevator is 45 meters high and is the work of Portuguese engineer Raoul Mesnier de Ponsard, disciple of Gustave Eiffel.
At the top of this neo-Gothic tower, built in cast iron and decorated with filigree elements, there is a viewpoint that provides impressive views of the capital. But be prepared for long queues to use the elevator.
Bica Lift
Opened on June 28, 1892, when it was powered by steam, it is a favorite among photographers and tourists who visit Lisbon. You will certainly take a great photo, as Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo, where the elevator is, is really steep. We were able to notice on the street, the houses right next to the tracks, which made the walk even better. Not to mention the beautiful view we have of the Tagus River in the background.
Glory Lift
Getting from the lower part, in Praça dos Restauradores, to Bairro Alto, at Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, with the elevator is much easier. After all, going around or climbing Calçada da Glória along its 275 steep meters is not an easy task and, therefore, the best option is to take the elevator, opened in 1885. In the beginning it was powered by a water counterweight. Soon after, steam powered it and since 1915 it has been electric.
Lavra Lift
And for last I leave the most unknown of all elevators and also the oldest, the first inaugurated. It was on April 18, 1884 that Lisbon got its first elevator, to make life easier for citizens and connect Largo da Anunciada and Rua Câmara Pestana to Jardim do Campo de Santana and Torel. The route is along Calçada do Lavra, like the others, which is quite steep.
All other lifts and elevators of the time have a signature Raoul Mesnier de Ponsard. And they all accept transport cards. After all, they are means of transport, as many city residents still use them to get around the capital without having to make long journeys. The difference is that now they compete for places with tourists.
Want a tip? Meet everyone. You will enjoy the tour and the beautiful views you will have!