PHOTOS: Učka Tunnel’s impressive new lighting design
- by croatiaweek
- in News
(Photo: Danijel Bartolić)
The Učka Tunnel, a crucial connection between Istria and mainland Croatia, recently reached a major milestone with the completion of its second tube.
The new tube of the Učka Tunnel extends 5.6 kilometers, making the entire tunnel system 6.5 kilometers long, the longest in Croatia. It includes 24 cross passages—12 for pedestrians and 12 for vehicles.
Leading Croatian firm Skira Lighting Design played a key role by illuminating the administrative building and the new tunnel entrance on the Kvarner side.
(Photo: Danijel Bartolić)
Dean Skira and his team seized this opportunity and went beyond the usual role of lighting designers. In addition to the lighting, they also designed a striking corten cladding wall that evokes the red, dry earth so characteristic of the Istrian landscape.
The inauguration featured Croatian red and white light displays on the administrative building.
(Photo: Danijel Bartolić)
Skira’s vision has led to a project that not only improves the tunnel’s functionality but also captures the essence of the region. The lighting will shift with the seasons, offering a dynamic experience for the millions of travelers using the tunnel in the future.
This design, combining technology and art with the enduring beauty of nature, is intended to last as long as the tunnel itself.
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Construction on the second tube started nearly four years ago and cost over €200 million, financed by Bina Istra through a loan.
The second tube is 5.63 kilometers long, surpassing the original tube’s 5.06 kilometers.
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The two tubes are spaced 100 meters apart at the Istrian end and 25 meters apart at the Kvarner end, with a maximum distance of 50 meters between them in the central section.
