Founded in 1959, the Swissminiatur of Melide in Ticino is an open-air museum dedicated to the authentic representation of Switzerland. On an area of approximately 14,000 square meters, more than 130 detailed models of famous buildings from all over Switzerland on a scale of 1:25 show the diversity of the country: from castles and burghs to the Federal Palace, old towns and even Zurich airport. There are also landscapes, mountains, including cable cars, and lakes on which boats sail. In addition, 18 trains run on 3,560 meters of track. A grottino, which offers food and drinks, as well as a souvenir store and other gift items complete the offer of the traditional amusement park. Swissminiatur was created and developed by Pierre Vuigner and is operated by Management Swissminiatur SA. The company, which employs around 30 people, is run by the third generation of the founding family.