The James Bond cinematic installation at the top of the Gaislachkogl Mountain (Photo: 007 Elements)
James Bond films are famous for their scenic backdrops so it came as no surprise when the first museum dedicated to the fictional British Secret Service was opened on the Austrian Alps. The location is also where Spectre (2015) filmed some of the most expensive scenes throughout the long-running spy series. The futuristic 007 musuem, whose aesthetics resemble a villain’s lair, is perched on the summit of Gaislachkogl Mountain in Sölden at 3,048m above sea level.
Only reachable via a mountain gondola from the Sölden ski area, the museum shares the mountain’s summit with the ice Q gourmet restaurant. Fans would immediately recognise it as the workplace of psychologist Dr Madeleine Swann, one of the Bond girls featured in Spectre.
The building also embraces Bond’s penchant for all things high-tech. The glass building sprawls over 1,300 sq m, and built inside the permafrost of the mountain. “The building is stabilised at 1 degree Celsius so the permafrost isn’t affected,” says creative director and James Bond art director Neal Callow.
Inside, the museum is decked out with dramatic, dark chambers and immersive soundscapes. Clips from the films and iconic Bond props are also on display, including the full size airplane from Spectre.
British actor Daniel Craig has confirmed to reprise his role as agent 007 in the yet-to-be-titled 25th film of the series, ending months of speculation over who would star in the series after he reportedly quit the franchise.
Admission to the museum costs US$25.80 (RM150) for adults, including transportation on the ski lift. Find out more about 007 Elements cinematic installation here.
