German theme park Europa-Park has reopened its Geisterschloss (Ghost Castle) attraction following a complete redesign.

First opened in 1982, the attraction has been renamed Castello dei Medici and features new theming.

“Many of us, including myself, loved the Ghost Castle when we were young and we want future generations to be able to experience this joy too,” said Ann-Kathrin Mack, partner at Europa-Park.

“The new theming ensures that the ride is exciting but not too scary, but it can still be a little test of courage.’’

The redesigned attraction takes visitors through the palace in small gondolas, telling the story of the rise of Lorenzo – based on the historical figure of the early Italian Renaissance, Lorenzo de Medici.

During the four minute-long dark ride, visitors watch as de Medici finds an old stone tablet with strange symbols and text written in an unknown Latin language, promising eternal life to anyone who follows its instructions. The ride shows his experiences – and whether he manages to escape death.

Europa Park's Mack Solutions was responsible for the storytelling, which features special effects, projections and illustrations.