Jora Vision, a leading design and production company, has revealed plans to further develop the Mystery Maze Experience at the Drielandenpunt in The Netherlands, following the success of its new ‘Amikejo Turo’ tower which opened earlier this year.
The Drielandenpunt (three-country point) marks where the borders of The Netherlands, Belgium and Germany meet, and is one of the most popular tri-border points on the planet.
In addition, it is the highest point in The Netherlands, and home to a nature reserve, playgrounds, tavern, and a labyrinth – which is being reimagined to create the Mystery Maze Experience.
Geert Driessen, operator of the Drielandenpunt’s attractions, says: “Worldwide there are 173 places where three countries meet. But, not long ago, there was a fourth country that used to join the others, making it the only four-country-point in the world.
“Our visitors want to have an adventure, but also learn something new. We were looking for a partner to add the stories of Moresnet (the fourth country) to our maze in an exciting way. So, we naturally got in touch with Jora Vision.”
Storytelling specialists
Jora Vision is renowned for its large-scale projects, including dark rides and theme parks. Since creating the QUAKE experience in Portugal, the firm has also established a reputation for creating captivating destinations and visitor experiences.
The Mystery Maze Experience combines this expertise with the firm’s storytelling skills to tell the intriguing tales of the fourth country of Moresnet. These stories are filled with adventure – with secretive smugglers, rich zinc mines, extravagant gambling, and a unique language – which will all be incorporated into the experience.
As visitors explore the maze, each turn provides a fresh perspective on the area’s rich history. Interactive activities encourage a connection to these tales. At the centre, visitors encounter the new Amikejo Turo (the friendly tower), which opened this spring and marks the first stage of the maze’s redevelopment. This unique landmark is inspired by the headquarters of Moresnet’s zinc mine company, which played a significant role in the fourth country.
The tower offers spectacular views over the surrounding landscape. In addition, an exhibition on the ground floor shares Moresnet’s history through projection mapping and a detailed model of the area. Skillfully created effects create a sense of being in the Napoleonic Wars or a secret gambling den. The display includes narration in four languages.
Location, history & experience
Jora Vision worked with projection specialists Mr. Beam to create the mapped video.
Bucko Arends, creative producer at Mr. Beam, explains: “In a project like this, where the content truly shines on location, it’s always challenging to convey our vision to the client early on. With the help of Jora Vision this was a breeze. We are proud of the small historically accurate details and have enjoyed working on the spectacular effects that leap off the table. As soon as you enter the room, you’re grabbed by the collar and won’t be let go until you’ve seen all the videos.”
Simon Tiemersma, design director at Jora Vision, adds: “We are really proud to have hit this milestone together with the Drielandenpunt. It is nothing short of exciting to work where nature, history and experience intersect as they do here. We already look forward to the next phases of the project.”
The maze’s transformation is expected to be completed next year.
Jora Vision recently collaborated with Vekoma Rides and Emerald Park on the new TĂr na nĂ“g land, which opened last month.
