LISBON, Portugal — Portuguese investigators are examining the site of a tragic accident on the Gloria funicular, one of Lisbon’s most iconic tourist attractions, after a deadly crash left 17 people dead and at least 21 others injured.

The incident occurred on the steep hillside route that connects downtown Lisbon to the Bairro Alto district, an area frequented by both locals and tourists. Emergency services rushed to the scene as survivors were transported to nearby hospitals.

Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the crash. Portugal’s criminal police have taken charge of the investigation to determine whether mechanical failure, human error, or other factors were involved.

Officials described the accident as one of the deadliest in Lisbon’s recent history. The funicular, a cultural landmark, has long been a symbol of the city’s historic charm.