Tourist attractions in Klagenfurt - Austria : MINIMUNDUS Miniature World
MINIMUNDUS is a miniature world at Lake Wörthersee, at Klagenfurt , the capital of the federal state of Carinthia in Austria. The approximately 150 models of famous structures from over 40 countries take visitors on a trip around the world in miniature format.
The core elements of MINIMUNDUS are the models that are constructed with close attention to the smallest details and, if technically feasible, by using original materials, like sandstone, basalt lava or marble. They are created in the MINIMUNDUS model workshop, by schools or by expert model makers. Even the smallest details such as shutters, ornaments and street lamps have been taken into consideration.
The technical models enjoy special popularity, for example the various trains that chug around their route through the park, or the Space Shuttle launch that starts every hour. All models are built on a scale of 1:25 (except for Hochosterwitz Castle, which was already created in 1959, and the passenger ship Queen Mary, which would have had a length of 12.40 meters); so the size of the models can be easily compared.
At first glance it is hard to believe that individual models cost more than € 500,000. For a model to be built, the first step is to check, whether it is technically and of course financially feasible. If it is, then, a group of 6 MINIMUNDUS model makers and professional model makers from all over the world will start the project. First, they get in contact with the authority responsible for the structure or the respective consulate in order to get the appropriate information. If it is technically possible, original materials will be used, such as sandstone, basalt lava, etc., to build the models. In many cases the stone which is needed, comes from the same area where the stone for the original structure comes from.
The core of the building is a piece cast from reinforced concrete, with openings left for the doors and windows. Then the individual stones (all individually cut) are built onto this core. For example, 28.000 small marble stones and 25.000 small sandstones were used for the model of Miramare Palace in 26 months. Parts that are needed repeatedly (window frames, balconies ...) are also cast. For this, an original is produced first of which a reverse print of rubber is made. This is then filled out with epoxy resin. Individual figures which can, for example, be found at the model of St.Peter's Basilica, are carved. Travertine (a preliminary stage of marble) was used for the figures at St Peter's Basilica, which was worked on with diamond drills. The model maker needs up to a week for a single figure. Some models are, of course, also fully cast in concrete, like the CNTower, which is the highest building on the area at approximately 23 meters height. It weighs 20 tons.
Minimundus was founded by the "RETTET DAS KIND"- "SAVE THE CHILDREN" charity in 1958 which is a privately run, nonprofit, nonpolitical, nonsectarian organization which helps children and families in Carinthia. The net proceeds of the miniature world all go to support children, young people and families in need.
