A lighting unit in the form of laminated layers including a first layer (A), and a second layer (B). At least one of the layers (A) or (B) is optically transparent and the layers (A) and (B) are arranged parallel to each other. At least one functional interlayer (C) is arranged between the layers (A) and (B) and arranged parallel to the layers (A) and (B). The lighting unit includes at least one light source. Preparation of the lighting unit is disclosed. The lighting unit is suitable for use in buildings, furniture, cars, trains, planes and ships as well as in facades, skylights, glass, roofs, stair treads, glass bridges, canopies and railings.