Located in the heart of Auvergne, Vulcania Park is an architectural project by Hans Hollein, completed in 2002. This theme park, dedicated to vulcanology, is a significant example of contemporary architecture harmonizing with the natural landscape.
Austrian architect Hans Hollein envisioned Vulcania as a seamless integration of man-made structures and volcanic surroundings. The main building, partially subterranean, emerges as a series of geometric volumes that echo the surrounding lava formations. This design choice not only minimizes the visual impact on the landscape but also creates a dynamic interaction between architecture and terrain.
The use of local materials, such as volcanic stone, and organic forms help anchor Vulcania in the geographical and cultural context of Auvergne. Hollein balanced the monumentality of the work with an ecological sensitivity, demonstrating how architecture can be a means of exploring and interpreting the natural landscape.
Vulcania’s interior structures offer an interactive journey into the world of volcanoes, with multimedia exhibits explaining geological processes and the importance of vulcanology. The design of the exhibition spaces reflects Hollein’s attention to visitor experience, combining education with spectacle.
