History and original concept

The proposal was put forward in the second half of the 19th century to facilitate movement between the commercial district (Lower Town) and the administrative and residential district (Upper Town). Construction began in 1869 and the funicular was inaugurated in December 1873, becoming an integral part of the transport network and commercial life in the historic centre.

Construction and initial design

The original structure was assembled using imported metal components and operated by a hydraulic/steam system. There were initially two cabins; historical records indicate a capacity of approximately 23 people per cabin, in line with the designs of urban lifts of the time.

Reforms and developments

• 1906: the switch from steam to electric traction, modernising the system.
• 1930: aesthetic refurbishment (influenced by Art Deco) and extension, which contributed to the current layout of the tower and the cabins.
• 21st century: modernisation, accessibility and safety improvements; works and reopenings documented by the local council.

Technical specifications

• Opening: 8 December 1873.
• Height: ≈63 m (original height) — ≈72 m (current height following extensions).
• Cabin configurations: currently operates with four cabin configurations; capacity per cabin varies depending on upgrades (records indicate ~23 originally and ~27–35 in recent versions).
• Journey time: around 30 seconds between the Upper Town and the Lower Town.

Passenger traffic

Tourism materials and press releases have cited high figures (for example, “up to 900,000 passengers per month”), but consolidated data show variations. Diagnostic reports (SEMOB/BNDES) recorded an approximate annual total of 2,395,181 passengers in 2023 (monthly average ≈ 200,000). Always include the source and year when publishing traffic statistics.

Listing and protection

The Lacerda Elevator has been granted federal listed status; IPHAN registered this listing in December 2006. Please consult the IPHAN website for expert opinions and official documentation.

Interesting facts and cultural context

• Original name: Conceição Lift (or Conceição Hydraulic Lift).
• It was one of the tallest public lifts in the world in its day and is a landmark of Salvador, offering views of the Mercado Modelo and the Bay of All Saints.

Practical information

Opening hours and fares are subject to change. Please check with the Salvador Mobility Department or the official Lacerda Lift channels for up-to-date information before your visit.

FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is the Lacerda Lift?

Approximately 63 metres at the time of its opening (1873); the current dimensions, following extensions, are often given as approximately 72 metres.

When was it opened?

8 December 1873.

Who designed the lift?

Designed by Antônio Francisco de Lacerda and built by the engineer Augusto Frederico de Lacerda.

How many cabins are there, and what is their capacity?

It has four cabins; the capacity per cabin varies depending on the refurbishment (approximately 23 originally; approximately 27–35 in more recent versions).

How long does the journey between the Upper Town and the Lower Town take?

About 30 seconds.

What are the prices and opening hours?

Fares and timetables are subject to change; please check with the Salvador Mobility Department or official channels before your visit.

Is the Lacerda Lift a listed building?

Yes — it was listed by IPHAN (officially registered in December 2006).

How do I get there / where is it?

Located in the centre of Salvador, connecting Praça Tomé de Souza (Upper Town) to the Mercado Modelo/Port (Lower Town). We recommend walking through the Historic Centre or taking public transport to the Mercado Modelo area.