Roller coasters, spinning tea cups, swinging pirate ships and log flumes are the staples of the modern amusement park, but these often massive, dedicated entertainment spaces have a fascinating history. Their origins can be traced back to the ancient world with its pleasure gardens, all the way up through the Renaissance and Industrial Revolution, with each age building on the attractions that came before. Here we’ll chart the evolution of the amusement park, from its lavish natural parks to the mechanical wonders of the modern world.
FAIRS & FESTIVALS
The history of the fair, a gathering of people for a common purpose for a limited time, goes back to ancient history. A key visual of the fair to this day can trace its legacy back to religious festivals, where large crowds…