Plano Inclinado Gonçalves, Funicular railway in Comércio district, Salvador, Brazil.
The Plano Inclinado Gonçalves connects the lower Comércio district to the upper Cidade Alta through two stations with parallel cabins on steep tracks. The system allows travelers to cover the elevation gain in a few minutes, linking these two important urban levels with regular service.
The facility was built in 1874 on a slope previously used by Jesuits in the 17th century and received its official opening on December 25, 1889. The German-engineered system proved itself over generations and continues to shape the character of the steeply rising city.
The funicular stands near the Pelourinho neighborhood, where preserved colonial architecture reflects Portuguese influence on Brazilian urban development. It remains part of daily life for people traveling between the city's different levels and navigating Salvador's steep topography.
The funicular operates regularly between Praça Ramos de Queiroz below and Rua Francisco Gonçalves above, with each cabin accommodating roughly 36 passengers. Plan for some waiting time, particularly during rush periods in the morning and late afternoon.
The system operates on a counterweight principle where the two cabins are connected by a cable, so the lighter cabin descending helps pull the heavier one ascending. This elegant mechanical approach allows the system to run with minimal energy consumption and demonstrates the sophistication of the original German design.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
