Theme parks are a distinctive form of immersive themed environments: “enclosed, large-scale, artificially created” spaces featuring attractions and entertainment designed to make historical, exotic, or imaginary worlds tangible and accessible (Kagelmann). Through controlled admission, clear spatial boundaries, and carefully staged atmospheres, they exhibit certain parallels to princely residences; indeed, sites such as the Hameau de la Reine at Versailles are sometimes regarded as precursors to modern themed environments.

Architecture, decoration, vegetation, music, and even scents work together to immerse visitors as completely as possible in another world, allowing everyday life to fade into the background. When a past culture is reconstructed in this way, one may even speak of “time travel” (Holtorf). Classical antiquity serves as an inspiration for theme parks and themed areas around the world. This lecture explores how ancient architecture, myths, and visual traditions are adapted, simplified, and emotionally charged within these environments.

The event is partner of Science Comes to Town.