- Initial assessment of the steam engine exhibit in Opingen's event
Around a month since its launch, the Steam Locomotive Experience World in Meiningen has welcomed around 4,000 guests. As per director Johanna Weißler, "The feedback has largely been positive." She continues, "As a new establishment, we're still aiming to expand and grow." The exhibition is set to evolve continuously.
After years of planning and construction, the sizable permanent exhibition finally opened in early August. Covering 900 square meters, featuring special exhibitions, the experience world located in an old canteen building within the Steam Locomotive Works in Meiningen offers insights into the history, importance, and operation of steam engines.
A disassembled "steam locomotive cut-open" is a notable feature
According to Weißler, younger visitors are particularly drawn to the walkable cabin of the steam locomotive. As part of the exhibition, a historical steam locomotive was dissected into various components, allowing visitors to grasp the underlying technology. Weißler also mentioned that videos about work at the adjacent Steam Locomotive Works, where Deutsche Bahn subsidiary employees continue to restore or maintain steam locomotives, are highly popular.
Following the exhibition's debut, it now faces a new challenge: On September 7 and 8, the Meiningen Steam Locomotive Days are expected to draw thousands of visitors, complete with guided tours across the Steam Locomotive Works grounds. During this time, the experience world offers a reduced entrance fee of five euros. Admission to time slot tickets includes guided tours through the exhibition as well.
The Steam Locomotive Experience World's permanent exhibition, with its focus on steam engines, provides a comprehensive look into their history and significance. Visitors are intrigued by the historical context, as well as the opportunity to explore the intricate workings of disassembled steam locomotives.
