IN-PERSON ISTANBUL HERITAGE(S)

Abstract

Valparaíso, Chile, is recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Among its heritage assets is a network of 15 funiculars (“ascensores”), whose inclined-plane operation and early 20th-century technology make them unique both nationally and globally. Originally, 10 of these funiculars were privately owned, while 5 were municipal. Over time, with the expansion of alternative transportation modes, these fixed-route systems lost user preference, resulting in declining revenues that negatively impacted their maintenance and operational standards. This financial strain led to the progressive shutdown of private funiculars, leaving only 2 in service. Municipal funiculars faced similar challenges, often operating in poor conditions or being forced to cease service due to limited financial resources. This situation created a vicious cycle: reduced income led to operational inefficiencies, further decreasing ridership and revenues. Consequently, the private owners decided to sell their funiculars. Recognizing their cultural and historical significance, the Chilean government resolved to acquire them. However, Chilean law mandates a social project evaluation to justify the use of public investment funds. This study presents the methodological approach and application for assessing the social value of Valparaíso’s heritage funiculars. The analysis evaluates both the cultural heritage value and their function as a public transportation mode. Furthermore, it addresses the long-term sustainability of these systems and proposes an integrated vision of the funiculars as a cohesive heritage transportation network within Valparaíso’s hills. The study highlights the importance of preserving these unique infrastructures while ensuring their viability as a sustainable mobility alternative for the city.