Lisbon's Gloria Funicular derails, leaving 15 dead, 18 injured: media reports

This photo taken with a mobile phone shows firefighters and Public Security Police working on the site of the funicular accident in Lisbon, Portugal, on Sept. 3, 2025. (Xinhua/Xun Wei)

The iconic Gloria Funicular in Lisbon derailed and overturned Wednesday evening, killing at least 15 and injuring 18.

LISBON, Sept. 3 (Xinhua) -- The Gloria Funicular, one of Lisbon's best-known tourist attractions, derailed and overturned on Wednesday evening, leaving 15 people dead and 18 others injured, including five in serious condition, local media reported, citing police sources.

Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas said the city is "fighting hard," calling it "a difficult day."

The accident occurred near Avenida da Liberdade in central Lisbon. The funicular carriage was badly damaged. Police said final casualty figures are still being confirmed.

Public Security Police work on the site of the funicular accident in Lisbon, Portugal, on Sept. 3, 2025. (Xinhua/Xun Wei)

Xinhua reporters at the scene saw police cordoning off a wide area around the site as dozens of police officers and firefighters carried out rescue operations.

A Spanish tourist, Felipe, told Xinhua that he "never expected such a serious accident to happen at such a famous landmark in the heart of Lisbon." Other bystanders also voiced disbelief.

According to local media, this is not the first derailment involving the funicular. In 2018, a similar accident occurred, though no one was injured at the time.

Built in the late 19th century, the Gloria Funicular connects Restauradores Square with the Principe Real district, with its bright yellow carriages running along steep slopes. It attracts large numbers of tourists every year.