Let's take a closer look at the world's largest model train in honor of National Train Day that is coming up on May 8. Miniatur Wunderland is a permanent exhibit in Northern Germany that has been growing since 2001. After inspiration from a visit to Zurich, Frederik Braun enlisted the help of his twin brother Gerrit to realize his childhood dream: to build the largest model railway in the world. After technical and economic consideration, the two began to construct what is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Germany.
One of the most interesting aspects of the largest model train exhibit is its constant expansion. Currently, 1,150 square meters make up Miniatur Wunderland, but by 2015 new construction plans to expand the model to over 2,300 square meters. There's always more to built when you're making a miniature replica of the world! Now over 150 people make up the team that puts extraordinary care and attention to detail into the project.
The first two layouts were Harz and Southern Germany. Newer sections of Miniatur Wunderland range from Italy, France, and Switzerland to the United States and an airport in the Alps. Part of the exhibit includes an open workshop where you can see the modellers and technicians working on the emerging creations. The exhibit is open daily, but to avoid excessive waiting time you can make Miniatur Wunderland reservations online.
Anything really is possible. Next time you think that your dreams can't be realized, just remember that the largest model train exhibit in the world started with one man's childhood fantasy.
