The facility is located within the largest glass elephant structure in the world, which serves as a landmark for the park.
Butterflies are imported in their pupal stage from specialized breeding farms to ensure genetic diversity and sustain the population.
The tropical climate within the house is maintained using advanced climate control systems integrated into the industrial framework.
The park grounds, where the house sits, were transformed during the 1984 North Rhine-Westphalia State Garden Show.
Some butterfly species housed in the facility have wingspans reaching up to 15 centimeters.
The house features a specific 'butterfly nursery' where visitors can witness newly emerged insects drying their wings.
The Butterfly House in Maximilian Hamm is situated inside a repurposed coal washing facility, creating a unique synthesis of industrial architecture and tropical ecosystem. It houses approximately 80 species of exotic butterflies from tropical regions including South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. The interior environment is strictly regulated to maintain high humidity and temperatures between 25 and 29 degrees Celsius. Visitors walk along a pathway through dense, lush vegetation where free-flying butterflies frequently land on blooming tropical plants. An integrated 'chrysalis station' allows visitors to observe the transformation process from pupa to adult butterfly. The facility is a central highlight of the larger Maximilianpark, which was redeveloped from the grounds of the former Maximilian colliery. The attraction serves an educational purpose, providing information on the life cycles and migration patterns of lepidoptera. The glass-enclosed structure maximizes natural light to support the growth of host plants necessary for the butterfly population.
The central pond area, where butterflies congregate to drink and nectar on vibrant tropical flowers.
Wear light-colored clothing to increase the chances of butterflies landing on you.
Bring a camera with a macro lens, as the insects are often very close to the walking paths.
Remove layers of clothing before entering the house to stay comfortable in the high-humidity environment.
Avoid wearing strong perfumes or colognes, which can confuse or repel the butterflies.
Closed annually during winter months for routine maintenance and plant care.
Do not touch the butterflies or the plants; keep noise levels low to avoid disturbing the insects.
