The winning proposal for the international competition to design a new bridge across the Kaštela Bay has been awarded to Croatian architecture studio 3LHD in collaboration with Slovenian bridge design experts from Pipenbaher Consulting Engineers. The decision was made by an expert jury as part of a competition commissioned by Hrvatske ceste, the Croatian national road authority.

A New Maritime Gateway and Skyline Landmark

The 1.6-kilometre bridge will connect the city of Split with the town of Kaštela, creating a vital new transport link toward Trogir, Split Airport, and the A1 motorway.

The structure is conceived as a cable-stayed bridge with two slender pylons and a 400-metre main span, clearly defining the navigation corridor and forming a recognizable maritime gateway to the future international port of Split. Its architectural identity is defined by the 157-metre-high pylons, inspired by the crystalline structure of Dalmatian limestone, the characteristic building material of the Adriatic coast. Rising from the sea and converging above the deck into a distinctive silhouette, the pylons will become a new spatial landmark within the Kaštela Bay.

Infrastructure as Public Space Above the Sea

Moving beyond its primary function of carrying four traffic lanes, the bridge is thoughtfully designed as an elevated public space. The pedestrian and cycling paths are functionally sunken below the traffic deck, protecting users from noise and wind while providing uninterrupted, panoramic views of the city and the surrounding archipelago.

This route is envisioned as an elevated recreational promenade, featuring four widened viewing platforms. These spaces are designed to function as gathering points for citizens, serving as prime vantage points during sailing regattas, sporting events, and public celebrations.