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Curiosities in Europa-Park: discover secrets and history!
Discover Waiblingen: News about Europa-Park, which turns 50 on July 12th and attracts over 6 million visitors.
Curiosities in Europa-Park: discover secrets and history!
Europa-Park, one of the most visited theme parks in German-speaking countries, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. On July 12, 2025, the popular park in Rust, Baden-Württemberg, which impresses with over six million visitors annually, will celebrate a special anniversary. The construction history of Europa-Park began in 1972, when the idea came about during a trip to the USA by Franz Mack and his son Roland. Initial designs were creatively sketched on beer mats, and just three years later, in 1975, the park finally opened its doors.
Over the years, Europa-Park has experienced numerous changes and expansions. Today it includes 20 thematic areas, including the Italian theme, which was the first thematic area to be realized in 1982. Prominent visitors such as Wolfgang Niedecken and Prince Albert II of Monaco have already been guests at the park. From concrete attractions to areas with an Italian flair, such as the piazza in the courtyard of the Hotel Colosseo, the park offers something for all ages.
Short-term planning and challenges
Europa-Park has also had to contend with challenges in recent years. A major fire in May 2018 caused significant property damage, followed by another incident in the indoor attraction “Yomi – Magic World of Diamonds”, where 25,000 guests had to be evacuated in June 2023. Luckily there were no injuries. Despite these challenges, work continues on the future of the park. In addition to the existing Rulantica water park, two new hotels are being planned.
Europa-Park currently offers over 100 attractions, including 14 roller coasters such as the Silver Star and the Blue Fire Megacoaster. A progressive and sustainable operation is also part of the park, with a run-of-river power plant and photovoltaic systems for power supply. This pursues an overarching goal: more environmentally friendly energy supply and a positive experience for visitors.
Unique special features
But Europa-Park also has some curious features. In the Dutch themed area there is the small Lady Chapel, on the outer wall of which there are gravestones of the noble Böcklin family of Böcklinsau, who once owned Rust Castle. It is fascinating that the castle park was integrated into the leisure complex, making historical elements visible.
For the more adventurous, you can even go kayaking on the small Elz River, but some of the bridges in the park are so low that kayaks cannot cross them. Europa-Park presents itself as a versatile place that combines history, lots of fun and exciting attractions.
With its 95 hectares and currently around 3,600 employees, which increases to 5,000 in the peak season, Europa-Park remains a central place for entertainment in Germany. The park is not only an amusement park, but also a showcase for products from the Mack family, who manufacture rides there, and thus offers a unique insight into the interaction between leisure and business.
For all those who would like to visit Europa-Park: Further information can be found on the official website europapark.de.
Overall, Europa-Park is predestined for numerous exciting experiences, with the history and the short distances between the subject areas together offering a unique experience. This year is sure to be a particularly memorable anniversary.