Santa Justa Lift

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What people say

"The Santa Justa Elevator, also referred to as the Carmo Elevator, is a public transport system, located in the center of the city of Lisbon, in the district of the same name, in Portugal. It connects Rua do Ouro and Rua do Carmo to Largo do Carmo and is one of the most interesting monuments in downtown Lisbon. It consists of a metal tower where two cabins circulate, and a walkway that connects the upper floor to the Carmo area. The elevator structure is made of cast iron, and uses a scheme inspired by the neo-Gothic style. It was built under the management of the distinguished engineer Raoul Mesnier du Ponsard, known for having carried out other projects of the same type across the country. This elevator has been planned since the 1890s, but the project was only approved by Lisbon City Council in 1900, the year in which work began. During construction, one of the most impressive phases was the movement of the viaduct and the support pillar to their respective positions, a maneuver that was carried out by rotating the entire components. The elevator opened in 1902."
Karen
"This viewpoint offers amazing views of Lisbon, but I know a secret way to reach the viewpoint without waiting in line for the lift. It’s a great shortcut to skip the crowds and still enjoy those iconic city views! PRO HACK - HOW TO GET THERE FOR FREE: Start by walking past the Elevador de Santa Justa on Rua de Santa Justa. With the lift behind you, turn left onto Rua do Carmo. Then, take the first right onto Rua Garrett, followed by another right onto Calçada do Sacramento (you’ll see a sign for Largo do Carmo). At the top of this street, you’ll spot the Carmo Convent—turn right just before the convent along Travessa Dom Pedro de Menezes. At the end of this small street, you’ll find a short flight of stairs leading up to a terrace. Climb these stairs, and you’ll be able to cross the bridge that connects to the Santa Justa Lift’s viewpoint, all without spending a penny! "
Laura Bornstein
"Lisbon has plenty of elevators around the city to help you conquer it's hills. The Elevador de Santa Justa is by far the most impressive and beautiful one. Getting a sight of this elevator is definitely worth it. It's close to Praça do Comércio and Museo de Carmo. You definitely won't see a structure like this anywhere else in Europe. You can buy tickets to the elevator and go to the viewpoint at the top, however, I don't think this is worth it. If you don't mind going uphill for a bit, you can reach the top via a bridge that is located right next to the Muséo do Carmo. You won't be able to reach the top, but you will be close enough to get a spectacular view. With all the wondefull and free viewpoints in Lisbon, I personally don't think it's worth waiting in line for this one. "

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About Santa Justa Lift

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