Python (Efteling)
Encyclopedia
Python is a double-loop
Loop (roller coaster)
The generic roller coaster vertical loop is the most basic of roller coaster inversions. Specifically, the loop refers to a continuously upward-sloping section of track that eventually results in a complete 360 degree circle. At the top-most piece of the loop, riders are completely inverted.-...

 Corkscrew roller coaster in the Efteling amusement park
Efteling
Efteling is the largest theme park in the Netherlands, and as it opened in 1952, it is one of the oldest theme parks in the world. Efteling is located in the town of Kaatsheuvel, in the municipality of Loon op Zand, and has received over 100 million visitors....

 in the Netherlands. When it started operation, it was the largest steel roller coaster
Steel roller coaster
A steel roller coaster is a roller coaster that is defined by having a track made of steel. Steel coasters have earned immense popularity in the past 50 years throughout the world...

 on the European mainland.

History and details

With Python, Efteling started the implementation of a new strategy: development from a fairy-tale forest into an all-round amusement park
Amusement park
thumb|Cinderella Castle in [[Magic Kingdom]], [[Disney World]]Amusement and theme parks are terms for a group of entertainment attractions and rides and other events in a location for the enjoyment of large numbers of people...

. This change led to many problems with the local community. Environmentalists tried to get the building permit withdrawn, and the park's neighbors feared more problems arising from growing visitor numbers. Because of the likely noise pollution, the highest court of public justice ordered the construction to be stopped. After some time, construction could recommence, but legal problems continued for several more years.

In 1995, when operating hours were extended until 10 pm, the coaster's 45-decibel
Decibel
The decibel is a logarithmic unit that indicates the ratio of a physical quantity relative to a specified or implied reference level. A ratio in decibels is ten times the logarithm to base 10 of the ratio of two power quantities...

 noise level became a problem once more. Plans were submitted to the local municipality, describing an extension and complete renovation of the coaster, which would reduce the noise substantially. Due to the high cost, the funds were allocated to the construction of a new coaster, Bird Rok
Bird Rok
Bird Rok is an Enclosed Roller Coaster in amusement park Efteling in the Netherlands.-History and details:The name of the ride, Bird Rok, refers to the adventure of Sinbad and the Bird Roc from the 1001 Arabian Nights; the extensive theming covers, beside the ride, the building and the queue line...

.

Efteling hoped to get a night license for Python with some small renovations (new trains and a chain lift), but only with a change in the permit could Python remain open until 10 pm.

In 2005 the trains were replaced by Kumbak Coasters designed by Karel Willemen
Karel Willemen
Karel Angèle Antonius Willemen is a Dutch designer. He is mainly recognized for his contributions for Efteling.Willemen started at Efteling in 1988, after completing the Royal Academy for Arts and Design in Den Bosch, as a Senior Modeler, Sculptor and Decorator...

.

Accident

On July 30, 2007, the ride became stuck at the top of the lift. One employee started to evacuate the train while another tried to pull the car back. The train, now unequally balanced, started moving and continued through the rest of the ride, injuring one employee. Passengers remaining on the train were quick to pull down their safety bars, preventing further injuries.

External links

Video of the accident
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