Elevador Santa Justa

( L I S B O N )

The Santa Justa Elevador is a romantic way to discover the city of Lisbon from high above the city.

The mistake you make when you first see the elevator is to say "funny how much that looks like the Eiffel Tower, it must have been built by him". Though there is some truth to that. The elevator was designed by a student of Gustav Eiffel, Raoul Mesnier de Ponsard. It was put in service for the first time in 1902.

Made entirely of cast iron, the work is a real pleasure for the eyes. An elevator allows you to ascend to the very top of the belvedere, where you'll find a cafe and a beautiful view of Lisbon, as well as the Carmelite convent, behind, which was destroyed by a fire.

It's a building that fits perfectly into the style of the period, even the ticket punch is no exception.

The Portuguese are very good at making the most of their cultural and historic heritage. Beware of pickpockets in large crowds, while you are looking up.... You should also know that with the Lisboa card, you get at free ride!