Both the Italian and Slovenian sides who took part in the operation were also praised.

The bomb was placed in a specially excavated hole which had been packed with material to prevent further damage in case of an explosion. A siren sounded at 10.08 this morning to indicate that the area was unsafe and that the deactivation process was underway.

Two members of the State Unit for Protection Against Unexploded Ordnance removed the fuse with a special tool and then carefully removed the detonator, thus disabling the bomb.

A second siren, at 10.46, signalled that the coast was clear and that local residents who had been evacuated could return to their homes.

It's the fourth time this year that World War II bombs have been found in the area during the reconstruction of the train station and its surroundings.