The lift is not working.
a-scen-SO-re — four syllables, stress on the third.
Report a broken lift, especially if you have heavy luggage or mobility issues. Hotels must assist guests when the lift is out of service.
'Ascensore' (lift/elevator) comes from 'ascendere' (to ascend). 'L'ascensore' — article 'il' becomes 'l'' before vowels. A broken lift is a significant inconvenience, especially in Italian hotels where rooms may be on the fourth or fifth floor of a building with narrow staircases.
L'ascensore è fuori servizio?
Is the lift out of service?
Ask to confirm if the lift appears broken
Sono al quarto piano con valigie pesanti.
I am on the fourth floor with heavy luggage.
State your specific situation to request assistance
Qualcuno può aiutarmi con i bagagli?
Can someone help me with the luggage?
Ask for a porter or bellboy to help carry bags up the stairs
Many Italian historic-centre hotels are in buildings constructed centuries before lifts existed, and the lift is a later addition installed in a very small shaft. These small lifts ('ascensori') break down more frequently than modern ones. Always check on arrival if the lift is working.