Explore Thuringia within an Hour Timeframe
In the heart of Thuringia, a unique attraction has taken root, offering visitors a delightful journey through the region's rich history. The Miniatures Park "mini-a-thür" in Ruhla, established in May 1999, showcases nearly 130 intricate models, all in the scale of 1:25.
The park's creation was primarily driven by economic necessity, as many large companies in the area, such as watchworks and vehicle electronics, did not survive reunification. Tourism, however, played a significant role in providing a new perspective for Ruhla. The precision mechanics in the area were able to create tiny models, leading to the concept of Thuringian miniatures.
Each model is a testament to painstaking handiwork, with a great emphasis on detail. Specialists are often brought in for specific tasks, such as the intricate ornaments on the portal of the Dornburger Rococo Palace, which were made by a baker. Original building plans, photos, drawings, or restoration documents serve as templates for new models.
Impressive buildings like Schloss Friedenstein in Gotha, the Wartburg, and the Gradierwerk in Bad Salzungen are included in the park. The park's attractions extend beyond the miniatures, with trains, children's attractions, and Germany's steepest summer toboggan run, boasting a height difference of 111 meters, a 35% gradient, and a total length of one kilometer. Speed limits apply on the summer toboggan run, with centrifugal force brakes ensuring a speed limit of 40 kilometers per hour.
The park's summer toboggan run is a popular destination, located next to the park. Visitors can also find themselves immersed in charming and original everyday scenes, as the park features many fascinating models embedded within these scenes.
In celebration of its 80th anniversary, the park's editor-in-chief, Gerlinde Sommer, organised a special tour for 30 readers. This tour was part of a series of meetings planned throughout Thuringia. The park has grown continually since its inception and will continue to do so, despite the challenges posed by the Corona years.
For those interested in upcoming meetings or events at the park, the park's website provides the necessary information. While there is no information available about an eighty-year anniversary celebration of a website, subsequent reader meetups, or miniature park tours in Thuringia, it is always advisable to check the website directly or contact the organisers involved in such events.
The Miniatures Park "mini-a-thür" in Ruhla, Thuringia, is a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and enchanting experience. The park's commitment to detail, precision, and the preservation of Thuringia's rich history makes it a truly special attraction.
Visitors to the Miniatures Park "mini-a-thür" in Ruhla, Thuringia can embark on a lifestyle journey, immersing themselves in charming everyday scenes and marveling at the intricacies of home-and-garden models, such as baker-created ornaments on palace portals. For those who appreciate travel, the park offers a unique exploration of Thuringia's rich history, showcasing renowned buildings like Schloss Friedenstein, the Wartburg, and the Gradierwerk, all meticulously replicated in miniature form.
