The Faroe Islands, a remote and wild archipelago in the North Atlantic, are the backdrop for an impressive feat that blends contemporary art with cutting-edge engineering: the construction of underwater tunnels that not only connect the islands but also transform the experience of traveling through this unique territory. The extreme weather conditions—strong winds, incessant rain, and thick fog that constantly blankets the landscapes—make traditional ferry travel difficult, making the tunnels a vital link between communities and a symbol of technological and cultural innovation.
This project is not only a response to the logistical needs of the archipelago but also a true expression of how art can be integrated into infrastructure projects, creating a unique sensory experience for travelers. As drivers pass through these tunnels, they are not merely moving from one point to another, but immersed in a fusion of sounds and images that make each journey an unforgettable experience.
The Faroe Islands archipelago, consisting of 18 islands, features dramatic and rugged topography. The construction of tunnels, both underwater and land-based, emerged as a smart solution to overcome the limitations posed by the terrain and severe weather conditions. Today, the Faroe Islands boasts an extensive network of 17 land tunnels and 4 underwater tunnels, with the most famous being the Eysturoy Tunnel, which connects the island of Streymoy to the neighboring Eysturoy, facilitating circulation and significantly reducing travel time.
“Although we are an archipelago of isolated islands, with our tunnels, we have transcended the very idea of insularity,” says Súsanna Sørensen, marketing manager of Visit Faroe Islands. She highlights how these constructions have not only improved access between the islands but also created new possibilities for tourism and social and economic development, linking communities once separated by seas and mountains.
The Eysturoy Tunnel, inaugurated in December 2020 after four years of construction, connects the island of Streymoy, where the capital Tórshavn is located, to the island of Eysturoy, famous for its volcanic landscapes and the internationally recognized G! Festival. With a 11-kilometer underwater stretch, this tunnel is a milestone in transport engineering, but it also stands out for integrating innovative artistic elements.
The tunnel was constructed using the traditional method of drilling and blasting through basalt rocks, a complex process that allowed for the creation of a robust and secure structure. The deepest part of the tunnel is located 187 meters below sea level, which could cause some apprehension for drivers. However, safety is ensured by the state-of-the-art engineering that designed the infrastructure, with the best geologists and engineers in the world involved in the project.
“The tunnels were designed to ensure total safety, and the presence of the ocean above poses no risk to drivers,” says Teitur Samuelsen, CEO of the company responsible for the tunnels, Eystur-og Sandoyartunlar. But what truly makes the Eysturoy Tunnel a unique experience is the art that accompanies it.
As drivers traverse the tunnel, they encounter a stunning underwater roundabout, considered one of the biggest tourist attractions in the Faroe Islands. Created by local artist Tróndur Patursson, the roundabout is illuminated by vibrant colors that alternate in a hypnotizing manner, offering a fascinating visual experience. The installation has been nicknamed “medusa” due to its fluid and glowing shapes, reminiscent of jellyfish illuminated by sunlight.
The installation features an impressive steel sculpture encircling a natural basalt column, which remains at the center of the roundabout, representing the power of nature. A circle of life-sized human figures, made of steel and holding hands, symbolizes the unity of the Faroese people. Patursson’s work reflects the solidarity and resilience of the local population, who, despite living in a challenging environment, remain united and strong.
Beyond the visual aspect, the Eysturoy Tunnel is also enriched with a unique soundscape created by musician Jens L. Thomsen. Instead of using traditional instruments, Thomsen captured the sounds of the tunnel during its construction, such as the sound of machines and the silence of the rocky walls. These sounds were transformed into an ethereal acoustic work, which can be heard by drivers tuning into FM97. The music, composed to create an immersive atmosphere, reflects the “voice” of the tunnel and provides a sense of detachment from reality, leading drivers into an almost meditative state during their journey.
Another landmark in the Faroe Islands’ underwater tunnel network is the Sandoy Tunnel, inaugurated in 2023, which links the island of Streymoy to the small and peaceful island of Sandoy. With a 10-kilometer stretch and a deepest point 155 meters below sea level, this tunnel is further proof of the Faroe Islands’ boldness in designing innovative infrastructures. But the Sandoy Tunnel is not just a transportation route; it is also a work of art.
The basalt walls of the tunnel are adorned with a series of luminous images depicting mythological and folkloric characters from the Faroe Islands. Among these images are figures such as a bishop with a battle axe, an old witch, and a selkie woman, all created by local artist Edward Fuglø. Fuglø, known for his works that blend tradition and modernity, reinterpreted ancient cave paintings, bringing them into a modern context in a unique way.
The soundscape of the Sandoy Tunnel was composed by acclaimed musician Sunleif Rasmussen, who used sounds from the tunnel itself, such as the dripping water and construction noise, to create an electroacoustic piece. The composition, which can be heard by tuning into FM100, is a creative expression that evokes the connection between man and the natural environment, as well as the musical tradition of the Faroe Islands.
The construction of underwater tunnels in the Faroe Islands has not only transformed transportation but also directly impacted the local communities. The ease of travel between islands has encouraged significant changes, such as an increase in the number of people moving to islands like Sandoy, which were previously isolated due to extreme weather conditions and limited transportation.
“Life in Sandoy has completely changed since the tunnel’s inauguration. Before, the ferry couldn’t operate for entire days due to bad weather. Now, I can easily go back and forth to Tórshavn,” says Barbara av Skardi, a local resident. This has led to an increase in the population and, consequently, the emergence of new businesses, such as Café Retro, opened by Dávur Jacobsen and his wife Barbara, who moved to Sandoy due to the new connectivity provided by the tunnel.
According to Ólavur Jøkladal, director of the Sandur Art Museum, “the number of visitors to the museum has more than doubled since the tunnel’s opening, demonstrating the positive impact of the project on local tourism.”
The underwater tunnels of the Faroe Islands represent a remarkable fusion of art and engineering, showing how infrastructure can be transformed into a rich sensory and cultural experience. They are not just transportation routes, but landmarks of identity and resilience, symbols of how a community can face natural challenges and create something beautiful and functional at the same time. These tunnels not only connect islands but also connect people, creating a new sense of belonging and shared experiences, setting a new standard for infrastructure projects worldwide.
