Cuca de Llum, Funicular del Tibidabo

Overview

Since 1901, a funicular has transported passengers up the Collserola mountain range in Barcelona to the Tibidabo Amusement Park. Cuca de Llum (glow worm) is the third iteration of the transportation system, designed by Miàs Architects. The project was the winning proposal in an international competition by Barcelona Serveis Municipals (BSM), the Barcelona City Council company that operates the amusement park.

The research culminated in a state-of-the-art technological hybrid, merging innovative manufacturing techniques and design features. These include double-curved glass panels, pre-cast fibreglass pieces, an automated driving system, and integrated lighting and entertainment. The result is a meticulously planned construction made from prefabricated parts.

Open to the public in 2021, Cuca de Llum is more than just a simple mode of transportation, providing an interactive and educational experience for the passenger. From the outset, Miàs decided to maximise the transparency of the vehicles to blur the boundary between interior and exterior, drawing the attention of passengers to the natural environment of the mountain range. Extruded aluminium profiles, fibreglass and floor-to-ceiling curved glass make a lightweight transparent design possible. All the elements and mechanisms necessary for its operation – from electric doors to an automated driving system – are integrated within its structure.

A model of the funicular is now part of the permanent collection of the Pompidou Centre in Paris.