In the depths of the Atlantic Ocean lies the world’s unique undersea roundabout, affectionately known as the “jellyfish.” Situated within a tunnel called Eysturoyartunnil, this vibrant traffic circle connects the Faroe Islands’ two largest islands.
This subsea tunnel, spanning 6.9 miles, serves as the Faroe Islands’ equivalent of the Eurostar, linking Streymoy and Eysturoy islands in just eight minutes of travel time. At its core, 72 meters below the sea surface, sits the world’s first undersea roundabout.
Adorned with colorful lights, the roundabout’s jellyfish design has garnered significant attention online. The tunnel itself exudes an eerie ambiance, especially as drivers navigate the roundabout with its changing hues of blue, red, and green, surrounded by black figures without faces.
At the center of the roundabout stands a massive natural rock pillar, a remnant from the tunnel’s construction. Artist Tróndur Patursson embellished this pillar, complemented by an 80-meter steel sculpture portraying life-sized figures holding hands around the roundabout.
These figures face inwards towards the pillar, symbolizing unity and collaboration. The tunnel, part of the Eysturoyartunnil network, opened on December 19, 2020, after a swift four-year construction period, aiming to enhance connectivity and stimulate societal transformation in the Faroe Islands.
The tunnel significantly reduces travel time between Tórshavn and Klaksvik, the Faroe Islands’ two largest cities, halving the journey to approximately 35 minutes. Descending 189 meters below sea level at its lowest point, the tunnel comprises three tubes converging at the vibrant roundabout.
Developed by the Faroese company Eystur- og Sandoyartunlar, this tunnel project represents the largest investment in the Faroe Islands’ history, totaling around €260m (£230m). Travelers passing through the tunnel are required to pay a toll fee of 75 Danish krona (£8.60) each way, automatically billed through license plate scanning cameras. The generated revenue is earmarked for future tunnel projects in the region.
Guðrið Højgaard, director of Visit Faroe Islands, expressed optimism that this infrastructure will distribute tourism benefits more inclusively across the northeastern Faroe Islands, potentially encouraging local businesses to cater to visitors.
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