Old Quebec Funicular facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Old Quebec Funicular |
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View from the funicular
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| Overview | |
| Status | in use |
| Locale | Quebec City, Quebec |
| Service | |
| Type | Funicular |
| History | |
| Opened | 1879 |
| Technical | |
| Line length | 0.064 km (0.040 mi) |
| Number of tracks | Double track |
| Highest elevation | 59 m (194 ft) |
| Maximum incline | 100% |
The Old Quebec Funicular (which is Funiculaire du Vieux-Québec in French) is a special kind of railway in Quebec City, Canada. It helps people travel between the city's two main parts: the Upper Town (called Haute-Ville) and the Lower Town (Basse-Ville).
This funicular connects you to cool places like the historic Petit Champlain district, the old Notre Dame des Victoires church, and the Musée de la civilisation (Museum of Civilization). It climbs at a steep 45-degree angle. The ride covers a distance of about 64 metres (210 ft), which is like going up a 20-story building!
Contents
The Funicular's Story
Early Days and Changes
The Old Quebec Funicular first opened on November 17, 1879. When it started, it used a "water ballast system" to move. This meant water was used to make one car heavier, pulling the other car up.
In 1907, the funicular was updated to use electricity instead of water. This made it more modern and efficient.
Rebuilding After a Fire
On July 2, 1945, a big fire sadly destroyed the funicular's structure. But the city quickly rebuilt it, and it was ready to go again in 1946.
Since then, the funicular has had major updates in 1978 and 1998. In 2004, it celebrated 125 years of helping people travel up and down the city's steep hill!
Modern Safety Upgrades
In October 1996, the funicular was closed for a while. This happened after an incident where a cable broke, and the emergency brake did not stop the cabin.
Because of this, the funicular was completely rebuilt with new, modern safety technology. It reopened in 1998. Now, it works more like an inclined elevator, meaning each cabin can move on its own. This makes it very safe for everyone who rides it.
How the Funicular Works
Here are some interesting facts about the Old Quebec Funicular:
- Length: It travels about 64 metres (210 ft).
- Height: It climbs a total height of 59 metres (194 ft).
- Cars: It has 2 cars that go up and down.
- Tracks: It uses a Double track system, so cars can pass each other.
- Power: It runs on electricity.
