26/01/2025
Exploring the Fascinating History of the Funicular in Lanzo d'Intelvi
The funicular is certainly an interesting destination, especially given that thes traks and cars still exist. Its history is rich and complex, so here’s a brief overview of the most notable events in its long and tumultuous existence.
Back in 1902, a group of prominent citizens from Lugano and Lanzo d'Intelvi formed a committee to promote the creation of a railway link aimed at boosting tourism in the Intelvi Valley, which was challenging to access from both the Lake Como and lake Lugano shores. Initially, two projects were proposed, but financial difficulties ultimately led to their abandonment. At this point, the Lugano Navigation and Railways Company stepped in, primarily interested in establishing a docking point in Italian territory for their boats coming from Switzerland, hoping to draw tourists from Lanzo d'Intelvi to the shores of Lake Lugano instead of Lake Como.
Thus, the Belvedere Funicular Company of Lanzo was formed, and design work for the route commenced immediately. The construction was completed in record time, with the official inauguration taking place on September 29, 1907.
The line features a curvilinear path, starting near the Santa Margherita landing. It runs along the slopes of Mount Sighignola, close to the border, with a length of 1,475 meters and a height difference of 607 meters. The tracks are meter-gauge, and there’s a halfway crossing point with a steep service staircase boasting 4,000 steps, while the maximum incline reaches a staggering 66%.
The funicular cars, measuring 8.26 meters and constructed by Von Roll, are made of wood and originally had no windows, as the service was only operational during the summer months. Each car had 32 seats, including 8 first-class and 24 second-class seats, plus room for 8 standing passengers on the platform. After a challenging start characterized by low passenger numbers, the situation gradually improved in the following years. The transport of goods was particularly lively, catering to the Grand Hotel Belvedere and Lanzo, where supply was more efficient from the eastern shore of lake Lugano.
The turmoil of World War I led to the closure of the hotel and the cessation of funicular operations, which had been intertwined with its life. After the war, an Italian entrepreneur worked towards its revival, but another halt occurred due to World War II. Finally, in 1952, it enjoyed a new lease on life when all mechanical parts were overhauled and updated.
Tourist numbers began to rise again until 1965, but unfortunately, difficulties in management became unsustainable, leading to the definitive closure of the funicular in 1977 after 70 years of honorable service.
Join us in appreciating this beautiful piece of history! Hopefully il will be renovated and a ride on this remarkable funicular will be possible again.
