DESCRIPTION
The initial exhibition opened in 2005 as one of the first visitor centres established in Romania. Twenty years later, it has been completely rebuilt by the Association of Ecotourism in Romania (AER), in partnership with the Vânători Neamț Nature Park Administration, through a project funded by the OMV Petrom Foundation. The new exhibition includes enhanced functionalities for visitor spaces, complete renovation with new heating, plumbing, and electrical systems, along with updated themes for interpretation and the integration of a wide range of interpretive techniques, ranging from simple printed panels to mechanical and high-tech installations.
The challenges for the team working on the design and interpretive concept were related to the building layout, the functionality of the spaces, and structural elements, but above all, the creation of compelling attractions that would transform an exhibition about the protected area into a must-see highlight within the Bison Land ecotourism destination. As a result, several design ideas and interpretive techniques were identified, including:
- Transforming the lobby columns into a stylised forest with canopy features and ambient lighting.
- An immersive projection on a 70-square-metre screen, showcasing spectacular images of the park.
- The use of VR goggles featuring 360-degree films, offering perspectives from four animals representative of the protected area.
- The installation of two remarkable dioramas: one open diorama featuring European bison, and another focused on dead wood.
The new visitor centre opened on 31 May 2024 and currently includes only the first phase of the indoor exhibition. The total budget for this stage amounted to 225.000 Euro (excluding salaries), VAT included.
The centrepieces of the exhibition are the European bison, emblematic of the area, and the forest, both presented through dioramas, high-tech and mechanical installations, an immersive projection on a 70-square-metre wall, and VR goggles offering 360-degree views. Additionally, the exhibition features a section dedicated to local communities, which includes a timeline of events spanning the past 8,000 years, making the centre a modern, immersive experience for nature and history enthusiasts.
Furthermore, in the immediate vicinity of the visitor centre, the following developments have been made:
- The extension of the small deck in the acclimatisation enclosure, allowing it to be walked on in a circuit.
- A playground for children.
- A sensory trail.
- A treasure hunting trail.
In the next phase, the interpretive facilities will be completed, a souvenir shop will be set up, the educational room will be renovated and equipped, and repair work will be carried out on the exterior of the visitor centre, including the restoration of terraces and walkways.
CONTACT
Phone: +40 233 206 002
E-mail: catanoius@yahoo.com
Website: www.vanatoripark.ro
