“Can you spot Osama Bin Laden?” someone whispers. That is a question you might hear when visiting Miniaturwelt Henricoland. This isn’t your typical museum. It is a world crafted with passion and a touch of playful rebellion.
Miniaturwelt Henricoland is more than just a collection of miniature trains and buildings. It represents a lifetime of dedication and a unique perspective on history and storytelling. Karl-Heinz Katschthaler, the creator, invested 25,000 working hours and 30 years into building this world. It showcases Altburg and Neustadt with surrounding mountains, castles and farmhouses all in 1:89 scale.
Katschthaler opened Henrico’s Hobbyshop in Mödling in 1989. The Miniaturwelt and a small model railway museum were added in 2008. The Miniaturwelt Henricoland is interactive. You can make the factory chimney smoke or start a fire brigade operation. Even a fire at the tax office is possible.
The origin of Miniaturwelt Henricoland lies in exhibition pieces for the shop window. Over time, Katschthaler accumulated ten model railway layouts in his attic. This led to the idea of creating a miniature world, named Henrico after the nickname given to him by his cousin.
Spanning 50 square meters, Miniaturwelt Henricoland is made of models and mechanics built by Katschthaler himself. He considers himself a recycler. Many components come from old devices. For example, a panorama restaurant rotates using an old hand mixer part.
Katschthaler has incorporated personal experiences into Miniaturwelt Henricoland. Buildings and shops are dedicated to relatives and friends. His first car is there as a miniature as is his house. Even his first model, a rest stop from his childhood, is on display.
You will discover vacation memories in a small lagoon. A public pool represents a vacation he couldn’t afford. Chris Lohner’s announcements play at the station before the Wiesel train departs. The cable car planned by former Vice Mayor Pepi Wagner is also running.
Historical events are also present such as the Lassing mining disaster. And yes, Osama Bin Laden is hidden in a cave beneath a farmhouse. It is in the mountains made of linen and plaster. By pressing a button, visitors can trigger light and sound effects.
Katschthaler sees Miniaturwelt Henricoland as a contribution to improving the world. It provides a moment to breathe and forget about worries. He regrets that locals are missing even though tourists come from all over the world. The Miniaturwelt Henricoland hopes to remind people of the joy of model making.
Miniaturwelt Henricoland is open on Saturdays in February 2025. Operating hours are from 2 pm to 6 pm. Admission is 8.00 for adults and 4.00 for children aged 3 to 10. A family ticket is available for 15.00. Admission is free for children up to 3 years when accompanied by a parent.
So, step into Miniaturwelt Henricoland. Explore the stories and hidden details. Experience a world built with passion and imagination. It’s a unique journey you won’t soon forget.