Visiting the Santa Justa Lift
The Santa Justa Lift, sometimes referred to as the Elevador do Carmo, is a landmark in Lisbon that has been a protected national monument since 2002. Standing 45 meters tall and spanning 7 levels, it connects the Baixa (downtown) district to the Bairro Alto (upper town). It was constructed between 1900 and 1902 by the French-Portuguese engineer Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard.
Although the neo-Gothic architecture of the structure bears similarities to the Eiffel Tower, no connection has ever been established between Mesnier du Ponsard and Gustave Eiffel. During its first few years of operation until 1907, the machine was powered by steam. Since then, it has run entirely on electricity.
Before becoming a primary tourist attraction, the lift played an essential role in the daily lives of Lisbon residents. The capital was built on hills, and you will notice during your walks that the inclines are quite steep and not always easy to climb. The Santa Justa Lift allowed locals to bypass these slopes, making their commutes much easier.
The uniqueness of the Santa Justa Lift lies in it being the only vertical lift in the city, as Lisbon features several funiculars. Some of these funiculars were also built by Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard. However, the style of the other lifts is completely different. Furthermore, over time, the cabins of those funiculars have been replaced and modernized, which is not the case for the Santa Justa Lift, which retains its original charm.
Why ride the Santa Justa Lift?
The view from the observation deck at the top of the tower is unmatched. You can see the entire old city, including the Castelo de São Jorge, various miradouros (viewpoints), the Tagus River, the winding bohemian alleys with their orange-tiled roofs in the Alfama district, as well as the Praça do Comércio.
Furthermore, the experience of the lift can be purely mechanical. It is a rare pleasure to have the chance to ride a machine that has been overlooking the city for 118 years.
One of the most touristy attractions in Lisbon. The line reflects that, and unfortunately, there is no skip-the-line ticket available. I recommend going early in the morning or late in the day, but it is hard to avoid the queue.
Despite the crowds, this lift is worth a look. Its metal structure, which reminds me a bit of the Eiffel Tower, is really surprising in the middle of the historic streets. While the ride up is quick, I really liked the interior of the cabins, decorated in wood, and especially the panoramic view from the observation deck.