The year 2014 marked the beginning of a large-scale restoration project to preserve the world cultural heritage of the historic inclined elevators in the centre of Valparaíso. Nine of the 16 elevators still in existence are to be modernized by 2019 while retaining their original design. The first completed elevator, Espíritu Santo, will be inaugurated this month. This elevator took its maiden voyage in 1911 and connects the city centre with the Bellavista hill. Valparaiso’s first elevator, “Concepción”, inaugurated in 1883, will also be reopened later this year.
Built between the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century, Valparaiso’s funiculars served as an essential means of transport for local residents. Today they take tourists up the numerous hills to enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the colourful city.
In recent years, however, many of the original 31 elevators needed to be shut down due to the lack of sufficient technical maintenance. As part of the modernization, ailing structural and electromechanical components are being replaced to ensure increased safety once they are reopened.
If you would like to get more detailed information on the restored inclined elevators, please contact your travelArt representative.
