It’s the kind of miniature park that will certainly amuse children who’d likely experience their first “trip around the world” here in Cockington Green Gardens. Interestingly, most of the visitors are adults who were all fascinated with the gardens and the fine details of the architecture and landscaping displayed here.
The original section displays Old English architecture and heritage sites in England. Prominently displayed is the old Cockington Village after which this garden was named. Complete with a miniature train which whizzes past all these miniature cottages and mansions as well as popular sites in Great Britain, I was just a tad disappointed not to find a miniature Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, London Bridge or Tower of London. Yeah, that would have been nice. 🙂
Complementing the original section is an International Section featuring popular sites in many countries in Europe, South America, Asia and Middle East. It is tempting to draw up a bucket list of must-visit destinations here. Miniature parks allow us to see the “big picture”. Ironic, I know. But we do tend to miss many details when confronted with the actual site. Like, Masada in Israel is featured here in its entirety and full glory. Not the ruins I witnessed back in 1996 when I visited the Holy Land. Borobudur at 100% viewing may not offer the lovely details one appreciates while rounding up the temple, but you see it here in a different perspective and newfound appreciation.
Such craftmanship displayed here! Patience and attention to details definitely abound in these creations. Plus the gardens are maintained truly well. Kid-safe too, methinks. Just as we were about to leave, we found a miniature Toragan representing our island nation. Toragan is a Maranao ancestral house where the village chief (called sultan or datu) resides. This architecture is distinctive because of the protruding butterfly-like beams in front of the house. Found in Southern Philippines where many Filipino-Muslims live, these stilted houses bear folk art paintings on its beams. Very, very ethnic. [ I just noticed the Philippine flag here is upside down, with the red above the blue, signifying war. What gives? ]
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