The Beauties of Cornwall – Natural Scenery Emblazoned with History

Cornwall is well-known for its mining past. During the 18th and 19th centuries the mines of this area were the world‘s largest source of tin and by the early 19th century the region was the greatest producer of copper in the world (2/3 of the world‘s total copper was produced here). The landscape was radically changed as a result of various industrial activities. In 2006 the mines were officially closed, production was suspended and the Cornish Mining Landscape was awarded World Heritage Status for its uniqueness. Cornwall was first settled by hunter-gatherers in the mid Stone Age. Around 1000 BC a group of warriors called the Celts arrived here. They gave the place its name Cornwall, which is most likely derived from the tribal name ‚Cornovii‘, meaning the “horn people” (The horn refers to its location at the end of the south-western peninsula). So Cornwall has Celtic origins, even possessing its own language.

Cornwall is a popular and attractive holiday destination with its interesting coastline full of ports and various beaches. Moreover, apart from the obvious tourist attractions, it is also home to a host of ancient relics. When roaming around Cornwall, you will probably come across numerous mystical standing stones or longstones, reminiscent of the neolithic monuments of Stonehenge. These stones are widely distributed throughout the whole of Cornwall. A distant past is also echoed by Cornwall´s typical straw bale houses, grouped in clusters forming small rural hamlets or villages.

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The Cornwall tourist industry makes up more than 1/5 of the total local economy. The only “city” is Truro, Cornwall‘s centre of administration, a touring and holiday centre. The city centre is dominated by a remarkable cathedral built in 1880 and by The Royal Cornwall Museum, the oldest museum in this region. Enjoyable moments can be passed in Trelissick Gardens with its abundant species of flowers.

Definitely do not miss visiting a local farm on which cider is produced. A typical menu in Cornwall offers “Cornish Pasty“ and Cornish sweets called “fudge”, which are characteristic of this region. A truly unique experience is offered by the “The Eden Project”, a gateway into a fascinating interactive world of plants and people. In times of global warming, it reminds us of the importance of the amazing relationship that exists between the human world and the fascinating world of plants. It includes the world‘s largest geodesic domes which contain two distinct biospheres, featuring plant species from the Mediterranean, South Africa and California.

By Veronika Leštáková
Photo: britainonview

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