Anton Pieck at Efteling
Every Efteling fan knows it: without Anton Pieck, the Sprookjesbos would look very different today. His romantic drawing style formed the basis for the park's world-famous fairy tales. To this day, his style lives on in new attractions, old classics and even the smallest details.
Pieck and the Sprookjesbos
The Sprookjesbos is where Anton Pieck's drawings truly come to life. The first ten fairy tales were based directly on his illustrations. Think of classics such as Doornroosje, Roodkapje, De Magische Klok and Het Kabouterdorp. His style gives each fairy tale a warm, enchanting atmosphere that is still recognisable today.
“On the building site, Anton Pieck was also known as ‘the Gentle Dictator’. He always gave you his opinion: blunt but respectful.”
The Diorama
In 1971 the Diorama opened, the first attraction outside the Sprookjesbos. This miniature world is packed with Pieck details: from cosy cottages to mountain landscapes and railways. His distinctive style can be found everywhere. Look closely – you might even spot a familiar Efteling resident!
Spookslot / Danse Macabre
Although Ton van de Ven designed the Spookslot, Anton Pieck continued to contribute ideas behind the scenes. His influence? You can see it mainly in the mysterious, Gothic atmosphere. The dark colours, creaking doors and romantically decaying elements are all classic Pieck, even where no specific drawing lies behind them.
Journey to Fata Morgana
When Fata Morgana was built, Pieck had officially already retired. Even so, he had an unwitting influence.
During a trip to Morocco, he drew inspiration from the atmosphere of the Arab world. Those impressions found their way into his work and remain a source of inspiration for the scenes in this enchanting dark ride to this day.
Pieck lives on
Anton Pieck's DNA is still present in later Efteling attractions too. In the designs for De 6 Zwanen, Het Kinderspoor, De Oude Tufferbaan and even Vogelrok, fans still recognise a touch of Pieck. His style forms the backbone of the park, and that won't change any time soon.
Want to discover more?
Visit the Efteling Museum or take a stroll through the Sprookjesbos. And keep your eyes peeled, because Pieck's magic is sometimes hidden in the very smallest details.
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