Plano Inclinado Gonçalves, Funicular railway in Comércio district, Salvador, Brazil.
The Plano Inclinado Gonçalves is a funicular behind the Catedral Basílica da Sé in Salvador's Historic Center, linking the Comércio district to Pelourinho. It has two cabins the size of a regular tram, each carrying 36 passengers or 2.7 tonnes. Access is via Praça Ramos de Queiroz in the Upper City and Rua Francisco Gonçalves in the Lower City.
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 name first planned for the line honoured Princess Isabel, but after the republic was proclaimed on 15 November 1889 the dedication was switched to Manuel Francisco Gonçalves, director of the company that built it. The Otis company, maker of the original motors, still maintains the equipment.
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