The 3D cave paintings in MergelRijk are one of the unique and impressive attractions of this underground adventure. The paintings use advanced techniques to create optical illusions, making them look like three-dimensional works of art. The paintings are inspired by the stories that take place in and around the Limburg caves and they fit perfectly into the mysterious and magical atmosphere of the cave.
The technique of perspective makes the images appear to really come off the walls and ceilings. This makes it an interactive work of art, where visitors can only view the paintings closely through a camera lens and from one point to best experience the 3D illusions. The paintings are so detailed and realistic that they take on an almost vivid appearance, making it a fascinating experience. The 3D paintings are created in such a way that you can take photos with them.
The combination of the caves, paintings and lighting makes it a spectacular experience that is a year-round hit. This unique combination of art, technology and the impressive nature of the caves makes the 3D cave paintings in MergelRijk truly something special.
In the Stone Age, drawings were already being made on the walls of caves about 25,000 years ago. Less long ago, but still more than 300 years back, people in our region started making numerous charcoal drawings on the walls of the marl caves in Limburg. The creative team at MergelRijk thought the time was ripe for innovation. While brainstorming, they came up with the idea of extending the line of the earlier wall drawings to the present day, using today's means and possibilities.
So the plan was conceived to have unique 3D cave paintings on the walls in MergelRijk, continuing the age-old tradition of creating cave paintings.
Did you know that there are only about 40 people in the world who are professional 3D artists? It's a pretty difficult technique and you can't learn it in school. You can only learn from other artists. This is how the Dutch Rianne te Kaat did it and how she is one of the few really good Dutch artists with 3D anamorphic art as a speciality. Rianne has done all the 3D paintings with the Christmas theme. Her works can be admired every year during Christmas in MergelRijk and are great fun to take photos with!
The 3D cave paintings are really surprisingly fun! When are you going to admire them
A visit takes 1.5 hours on average, often a little longer with small children. REMEMBER: after 3pm, you cannot enter.
