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Elevador da Bica
Rua de São Paulo 234About
The last of three funiculars to begin operation in the Portuguese capital, Elevador da Bica opened in 1892 and its track is the longest of the network, though the cars are the smallest. The word elevador is a misnomer. Actually it's lost in translation because it's not a lift at all. A funicular is rather like a cable car on wheels. These whimsical machines became fashionable in the mid-19th century and the three in Lisbon are extremely popular with residents and visitors alike. The Bica funicular is the best value for money, travelling twice the distance than Elevador do Lavra and Elevador da Glória. The picturesque Rua da Bica de Duarte arrows up from Largo de São Paulo through a neighbourhood of rickety old townhouses and narrow cobblestone alleys, and the bright yellow cars that yo-yo along its steep route are an endearing reminder of a less hurried era. © NileGuide2011 Inaugurated in 1892, it functioned with a motor, and later started to function with electricity. Today the two elevators continue to be used, not only by the locals to get to work, but also by tourists. There is a wonderful view to be seen over the Tagus river from here. Close to Bica Elevator, you can find a Rua de São Paulo, an area characterised by buildings of the 18th century.
