Fuksas and Sandi Pirš Win Capodistria Tower Competition

Studio Fuksas, in collaboration with Slovenian architect Sandi Pirš, won the competition organized by the Municipality of Capodistria, Slovenia, to connect the coastal area of Giusterna with Monte San Marco. The jury, chaired by architect Vilijem Šantavec, unanimously approved the project for its emblematic forms. Massimiliano Fuksas described the design as two intertwined spirals representing Slovenia and Italy coexisting in the area. The Capo Grande Tower will be approximately 110 meters tall, inclined toward the sea, with glass elevators offering panoramic views from sea level to a belvedere at 55 meters and the summit, where visitors can see the Slovenian and Italian coasts merge. The tower and a 100-meter glass bridge will improve mobility for residents and tourists. The hilltop will feature a retail point, bar, restaurant, and recreational areas with slides, climbing walls, and bungee-jumping. The project is part of a broader vision to develop the waterfront from Trieste to Capodistria and the Croatian coast. Mayor Boris Popovič stated the work should be completed within two years; expropriation of 6,000 square meters has begun, and construction permits are expected by September 2018. The estimated cost is €6 million, half funded by the European Union for the first phase, with private investors needed for completion.