Gauls conquer Saxony - first step towards the Asterix Park

The Belantis theme park near Leipzig is to be promoted to the premier league in the coming years with an investment volume of around 100 million euros. To achieve this, the Gallic heroes Asterix, Obelix and Idefix are coming to Saxony. A first step has now been taken with the opening of the Idefix Adventure Land.

The first Asterix park outside France is being created

"It's a start, but every year another area is planned and the whole universe of Asterix is to be reflected," said François Fassier, from the new operator Compagnie des Alpes. The final renaming to "Asterix Park Deutschland" is planned for 2030/31.

"A new wind is blowing" - 100 million euros as an investment plan

The company is investing around 100 million euros in the more than 80-hectare site over the next few years, emphasized the Managing Director of Belantis, Filip De Witte. He admitted that not much had happened in the park in recent years. "Now a new wind is blowing." The aim is to welcome between 800,000 and one million guests every year with the complete renovation. So far, there have been around 300,000 visitors. According to him, around three million people flock to the Asterix Park near Paris every year.

First themed area for younger children

The Idefix Adventure Land, which primarily offers attractions for younger guests aged between three and eight, marks the start of the extensive renovation work. The themed world offers a river ride, a driving school for beginners, a flying machine and a soapbox whirl. Young guests can also explore the newly designed adventure playground.

Daughter of an Asterix creator at the opening

The first Asterix comic by René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo was published in 1959. Germany is reportedly the largest international market for Asterix outside France, with 130 million comics sold. Goscinny's daughter also came to Leipzig for the opening. "I am convinced that my father and Albert Uderzo will look down on the park with joy," said Anne Goscinny.

Lipzig Mayor Jung believes in the park's glorious future

The Mayor of Leipzig, Burkhard Jung, also revealed himself as a fan of the Gaul. "Childhood dreams come true here," emphasized the SPD politician. He has devoured every volume since 1968. "There are so many fans across the generations. That's why I'm convinced that this place will have a chance of making it into the top ten best destinations."