Elevador da Bica
It all begins with an idea.
Elevador da Bica, also known as the Ascensor da Bica is located on Europe’s most photographed street.
Lisbon is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and the street which is home to the Bica Funicular is the most photographed site Lisbon. The funicular is painted in the distinctive yellow of the Lisbon trams and its original wooden interior brings you back in time.
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Book Your Lisbon Tour With Viator ⭐
The Bica Funicular, known as Elevador da Bica, is one of Lisbon’s many iconic funicular railways. It connects the neighborhood of Bairro Alto to Cais do Sodré, running along the steep slopes of the Bica district. Built in 1892, it is a remarkable example of 19th-century engineering and urban transport.
The funicular spans approximately 350 meters and features a gradient of 20 percent. It operates on a cable system, where two cars are connected and counterbalanced; as one car ascends, the other descends. The journey offers stunning views of the Tagus River and the surrounding architecture, making it a popular experience for both locals and tourists.
The Bica Funicular is characterized by its distinctive yellow exterior, which has made it a symbol of Lisbon. It operates daily, though schedules may vary based on the time of year or maintenance needs. Riding the Bica Funicular provides a unique perspective on the city’s hilly landscape and is a testament to Lisbon's rich history in transportation.
Book Your Lisbon Tour With Viator
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Book Your Lisbon Tour With Viator ⭐
Bica is a local name for this district of Lisbon, and the name Bica refers to the ancient system of water networks that service the area…. Some of the locals even refer to their espresso as a ‘Bica’ in deference to the water that their coffee is made from.
The word Bica has a connection to water in Lisbon, primarily through its historical context. The term "Bica" refers to a water fountain or spring, which reflects the significance of fresh water sources in urban development. The Bica Funicular was originally built to help residents traverse the hilly terrain, facilitating access to water sources and other essential amenities. Thus, while Bica today is a vibrant neighborhood known for its charming vistas and cultural attractions, its name alludes to the historical importance of water in the city.
In deference to the water it’s made from, locals even call their espresso coffee as a Bica.
