Bica Funicular

Category: Civil Architecture > Elevator

District: Lisboa > Lisboa > Lisboa > Santa Catarina

Location

The Bica Funicular is located on one of Lisbon's most notable hills, on Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo, within the Santa Catarina district. This funicular connects Rua de São Paulo, at the lower part of the route, to Largo do Calhariz, situated at the highest point of the slope.

Its unique trajectory offers striking views of Lisbon's urban landscape, framing the traditional colorful houses and adorned balconies, with the Tagus River appearing on the horizon. The entrance to the funicular's lower station, from Rua de São Paulo, is made from inside a building, creating the sensation of beginning a journey from a peculiar passage.

History and Recognition

Inaugurated on June 28, 1892, the Bica Funicular is a work by the renowned Portuguese engineer Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, a prominent figure in the design of various similar transport systems in Portugal. Throughout its many years of existence, the funicular has undergone significant technological evolutions.

Initially, its movement was based on an ingenious water counterweight system, which would later be replaced by steam power in 1896, and finally by electric energy in 1914. Given its relevance to the city's heritage, the Bica Funicular was formally classified as a National Monument in February 2002.

Characteristics and Environment

The two carriages, identical and generally in their distinctive yellow color, travel on a double-rail track that is harmoniously integrated into the street pavement. Each carriage has three horizontal compartments, with independent access, designed to adjust to the slope of the terrain.

A peculiarity that makes the Bica Funicular unique among Portuguese funiculars is the fact that part of its route is shared with vehicular traffic. The route itself is an invitation to observe the daily life of the neighborhood, with its typical facades and the details of the balconies. The surface of the carriages has, on certain occasions, been used as a canvas for temporary artistic interventions, adding a cultural element to its historical value.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt