In the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean lies the world’s unique undersea roundabout, affectionately known as the “jellyfish.” Situated within the Eysturoyartunnil tunnel, this vibrant traffic circle connects two major islands in the Faroe Islands.
Serving as the Faroe Islands’ equivalent of the Eurostar, this subsea tunnel spans 6.9 miles, linking Streymoy and Eysturoy islands, allowing a quick eight-minute drive through its depths. At its core, 72 meters below the water’s surface, lies the world’s pioneering underwater roundabout.
Adorned with vivid lights, the jellyfish-themed roundabout is gaining significant attention online. The tunnel itself already possesses an eerie ambiance, further heightened by the presence of the roundabout, featuring dynamic shades of blue, red, and green, with faceless silhouettes encircling it.
At the hub of this roundabout stands a massive illuminated natural rock pillar, a remnant from the tunnel’s construction. Renowned Faroese artist Tróndur Patursson embellished the pillar, surrounded by an 80-meter steel sculpture depicting life-size figures holding hands in unity around the roundabout.
The figures all face inward towards the pillar, symbolizing progress through unity, as explained by the artist. This symbolic artwork aims to represent the Faroese ethos of achieving greatness through collaboration. The Guardian has reported the significance of this installation.
Opened on December 19, 2020, after a swift four-year construction period, the Eysturoyartunnil subsea tunnel network aims to enhance Faroese society by fostering connections between individuals, regions, and economies. This tunnel significantly reduces travel time between Tórshavn and Klaksvik, cutting the journey from 70 minutes to approximately 35 minutes. Situated 189 meters below sea level at its lowest point, the tunnel features three tubes converging at the colorful roundabout.
Managed by the Faroese company Eystur- og Sandoyartunlar, this tunnel project stands as the largest investment ever undertaken in the Faroe Islands, amounting to around €260m (£230m). Travelers navigating this deep Atlantic passageway must pay a toll fee of 75 Danish krona (£8.60) each way, automatically billed through license plate scanning. The revenue generated from this tunnel is earmarked for future tunnel developments in the Faroe Islands.
Guðrið Højgaard, director of Visit Faroe Islands, expressed optimism that this new infrastructure will promote tourism across the northeast region of the Faroe Islands and encourage local businesses to cater to visitors more effectively.