Funicular of Valle de los Caídos

The Valle de los Caídos funicular is a transport system in the granite mountains of the Sierra de Guadarrama that connects two stations across a 272-meter span. It rises 120 meters with a 28-degree incline and features two coaches designed to carry 40 passengers each, completing the route in roughly three minutes.

This funicular was built in 1975 near the basilica to provide access to the memorial complex below. Major maintenance work took place in 1987 and 2004 to keep the system functioning properly.

The funicular provides access to the base of the 150-meter cross, a central element of the Valley of Cuelgamuros memorial complex.

The funicular provides direct access to the memorial site but is not currently available for rides. It is worth checking ahead before planning a visit to the location.

The system has remained closed since 2009 due to concerns about potential rock falls from the surrounding mountain formations. Although no longer operational, the structure remains visible along the steep mountain slopes.

Location: San Lorenzo de El Escorial

Part of: Valley of Cuelgamuros

GPS coordinates: 40.63961,-4.15308

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:02