Meta Provence, located near the metasequoia road in Damyang, which is one of the most beautiful tree-lined roads in Korea, is rapidly turning into a tourist hot spot. (Image : Yonhap)
DAMYANG, Aug. 11 (Korea Bizwire) - Meta Provence, located near the metasequoia road in Damyang, which is one of the most beautiful tree-lined roads in Korea, is rapidly turning into a tourist hot spot. ‘Meta Provence’ is a compound word with ‘Meta’ from ‘metasequoia’ and ‘Provence’ put together. As ‘a small piece of Europe’ in Damyang, many tourists have visited even though it is not yet completely opened.
Since its partial opening in July 2014, 14 pensions and 16 shopping centers have opened for business. It will open officially once the construction of a hotel is finished by the end of next year.
The buildings are built in European style, and visitors are commonly found taking pictures. In addition, the shopping centers have stores selling famous food from the region. Even though the site is partially still under construction, it is high in popularity. (Image : Yonhap)
The buildings are built in European style, and visitors are commonly found taking pictures. In addition, the shopping centers have stores selling famous food from the region. Even though the site is partially still under construction, it is high in popularity.
However, controversy arose during the construction of the site. A convention center that was in the original plans seems to have been canceled. Land owners have criticized the local government, and even filed a lawsuit. “We allowed the construction because we thought major public utilities were to be built. But it seems like that was a lie and they took the profits from building structures of commercial use.”
Also, there are worries about reckless development. Soil erosion on the hills nearby the construction site is drawing concern.
There are worries about reckless development. Soil erosion on the hills nearby the construction site is drawing concern. (Image : Yonhap)
Authorities from the local government are planning to request a safety review from a professional organization. “We plan to carry out the business considering all that has to be checked. Legitimacy and safety cannot be left out. We are confident that once the construction is over, it will be a place that represents the region, and that will attract many tourists.”
By M.H.Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
