Wilhelmsbader Karussell, Historic carousel in Wilhelmsbad State Park, Hanau, Germany
The Wilhelmsbader Karussell is a rotating carousel built in 1780 with a circular temple design supported by twelve Tuscan columns and crowned by a large dome. The structure shows high craftsmanship and symmetrical layout typical of entertainment buildings from that era.
The carousel was designed and built in 1780 by architect Franz Ludwig Cancrin as an entertainment facility for the spa town of Wilhelmsbad. After 85 years of operation, it suffered major damage during the 1866 war but was later restored and now stands in the Wilhelmsbad Palace Park.
The carved wooden horses and ornate carriages show how wealthy visitors spent their leisure time in spa towns during the 1700s. Looking at the decoration, you can see how much elegance and luxury mattered in such places back then.
The carousel is open to visitors on selected days throughout the year, with exact opening hours and tour information available on the official website. Check ahead to see when guided tours are offered, as these help you better understand the mechanical systems and interior details.
Hidden inside the structure is an unusual drive system with an axle about one meter wide running through iron bearings and anchored in a deep shaft beneath the building. This underground foundation shows how cleverly the construction was engineered to keep the rotation stable.
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