The founder and the visionary
Franz Mack was a man of action. As an entrepreneur, innovator and founder of Europa-Park, he recognised opportunities where others saw limitations. When he and his son Roland launched Europa-Park in 1975, their vision was not just of a theme park, but of a place that would bring people together and bring Europe to life. Not as a political concept, but as it is in the best sense of the word: A shared culture and environment.
Ulrich Damrau was a man of great creativity. An architect, set designer, painter and draughtsman, he was a man of many talents. After holding prestigious posts around the globe, he found his true calling at Europa-Park. What began as a temporary assignment became his life's work. For over 25 years, he shaped the European themed concept of Europa-Park – meticulously, passionately and uncompromisingly – driven by his conviction that architecture is not merely a backdrop, but the very soul of the park.
Europe is more than just an idea. Europe is a promise.
A tension that inspires
They were not a pair who always saw eye to eye. Damrau pursued his plans with great tenacity, even when they clashed with the founder’s pragmatic approach. Yet it was precisely this tension that brought out the best in both of them. Franz Mack held the artist in high regard, not despite his stubbornness, but because of it.
Damrau knew that he had found partners who understood his thirst for adventure in the Mack family. What bound them together was deeper than any practical difference of opinion. They were united by an unflagging curiosity and an insatiable longing for enchantment, as well as a shared conviction that Europe is worth celebrating.
Ulrich Damrau – the architect of Europa-Park
Ulrich Damrau is the man who designed the first themed areas at Europa-Park. A story full of happy moments and deep friendship.
A gift to Rust – and to Europe
