Festungsbahn, Funicular in Kufstein, Tyrol, Austria

The Festungsbahn, also called Panoramabahn Kaiser Maximilian, is an inclined lift from the Festungsneuhof in Kufstein's old town up to the fortress. It climbs about 90 metres at roughly 46 degrees on a 73-metre track, taking 90 seconds. The eight-person carriage has no driver; passengers press the up or down button themselves.

The fortress itself dates back to the early 13th century when it stood under Bavarian control. It was later expanded under Maximilian I and became a strategic point in regional history.

The funicular is named after Emperor Maximilian I, who expanded Kufstein Fortress. During the midday Heldenorgel concerts in the fortress, the railway pauses so the music is not disturbed. A ride is only possible with a valid fortress admission ticket.

The ride takes 90 seconds along a 73-metre track at about 46 degrees of incline. Boarding requires a fortress admission ticket; at the valley station you receive a separate lift ticket that is collected before you enter the carriage. The descent starts automatically after pressing the request button. The railway pauses during the midday Heldenorgel concerts.

The funicular runs on the route of a former hoist that is thought to have been built in the 17th century to haul food, supplies and artillery up to the fortress. That hoist was closed and dismantled in 1965, and the present lift opened in 1999. During the midday Heldenorgel concerts the railway pauses so as not to disturb the music.