Haunted Castle

The Haunted Castle was a walkthrough haunted attraction at Efteling theme park featuring mechanical skeletons that performed synchronized movements to classical music during eight-minute shows. Visitors moved through a large theater space inside the building where automated figures danced and moved in coordinated sequences to accompany the musical performances.

The building opened in May 1978 as the park's first major attraction located outside the original Fairy Tale Forest zone. This opening marked a turning point in how the park began expanding beyond its initial concept area.

The castle's exterior shows Gothic features with carefully placed windows that give the building a face-like appearance. This design choice makes it instantly recognizable to visitors as they explore the park.

The indoor structure provided entertainment regardless of weather, with shows running continuously during park operating hours. Visitors should arrive with time to watch a full performance and can return later if they wish, as shows started regularly throughout the day.

Singer Kate Bush performed near the castle shortly after its opening, bringing international attention through a television special. This rare appearance connected the local attraction to the global music scene at that time.

Location: Loon op Zand

Inception: May 10, 1978

Part of: Efteling

GPS coordinates: 51.64877,5.04860

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:40