Mark's Folly
Mark’s Folly, often referred to as Little Italy, is a unique hillside garden located in the village of Corris, on the boundary between Gwynedd and Powys. Hidden within a steep, wooded slope, it consists of a collection of miniature architectural structures inspired by Italian landmarks, created over several decades by a local resident. The site was developed by Mark Bourne, a former poultry farmer, who began constructing the models in the late 20th century. Inspired by visits to Italy, he recreated elements of classical and Renaissance architecture within his garden, translating large-scale buildings into small, hand-built replicas. Over approximately 25 years, Bourne constructed dozens of structures across the terraced hillside. These included recognisable forms based on buildings such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Rialto Bridge and domed cathedral forms inspired by Florence. The scale and detail of the work reflect a sustained personal project rather than a formal architectural undertaking. The construction methods were improvised and resourceful. Bourne used materials such as concrete, wire and salvaged metal to create the structures, often adapting everyday objects as moulds or frameworks. Water from the nearby stream was used in mixing materials, and the steep terrain required the transport of supplies by hand. The arrangement of the structures follows the natural contours of the hillside, with terraces and retaining features incorporated into the design. Some elements served practical functions, such as stabilising the slope or concealing storage areas, blending decorative and functional purposes. The site became known locally as “Mark’s Folly,” reflecting the perception of the project as an eccentric undertaking. Despite this, the scale and persistence of the work have led to its recognition as a significant example of individual creative expression within a landscape. After Bourne’s death in 2009, the site began to deteriorate as vegetation reclaimed parts of the structures. The combination of damp conditions and plant growth has affected the stability of the materials, making conservation a challenge. Efforts have since been made to preserve the site through a local trust, which aims to maintain the structures while respecting the original character of the garden. The work focuses on stabilising the remaining features and managing the surrounding environment. The garden is located on private property and is not open to the public. However, parts of the site can be viewed from a nearby public footpath that passes through the area, allowing glimpses of the structures within the woodland. The surrounding landscape of Corris includes historic mining remains and upland terrain, placing the site within a broader context of industrial and rural history. Mark’s Folly stands as a rare example of a personal architectural landscape, combining artistic vision, improvisation and long-term dedication within a secluded Welsh setting. Alternate names: Little Italy Mark’s Folly Corris
Mark's Folly
Mark’s Folly, often referred to as Little Italy, is a unique hillside garden located in the village of Corris, on the boundary between Gwynedd and Powys. Hidden within a steep, wooded slope, it consists of a collection of miniature architectural structures inspired by Italian landmarks, created over several decades by a local resident. The site was developed by Mark Bourne, a former poultry farmer, who began constructing the models in the late 20th century. Inspired by visits to Italy, he recreated elements of classical and Renaissance architecture within his garden, translating large-scale buildings into small, hand-built replicas. Over approximately 25 years, Bourne constructed dozens of structures across the terraced hillside. These included recognisable forms based on buildings such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Rialto Bridge and domed cathedral forms inspired by Florence. The scale and detail of the work reflect a sustained personal project rather than a formal architectural undertaking. The construction methods were improvised and resourceful. Bourne used materials such as concrete, wire and salvaged metal to create the structures, often adapting everyday objects as moulds or frameworks. Water from the nearby stream was used in mixing materials, and the steep terrain required the transport of supplies by hand. The arrangement of the structures follows the natural contours of the hillside, with terraces and retaining features incorporated into the design. Some elements served practical functions, such as stabilising the slope or concealing storage areas, blending decorative and functional purposes. The site became known locally as “Mark’s Folly,” reflecting the perception of the project as an eccentric undertaking. Despite this, the scale and persistence of the work have led to its recognition as a significant example of individual creative expression within a landscape. After Bourne’s death in 2009, the site began to deteriorate as vegetation reclaimed parts of the structures. The combination of damp conditions and plant growth has affected the stability of the materials, making conservation a challenge. Efforts have since been made to preserve the site through a local trust, which aims to maintain the structures while respecting the original character of the garden. The work focuses on stabilising the remaining features and managing the surrounding environment. The garden is located on private property and is not open to the public. However, parts of the site can be viewed from a nearby public footpath that passes through the area, allowing glimpses of the structures within the woodland. The surrounding landscape of Corris includes historic mining remains and upland terrain, placing the site within a broader context of industrial and rural history. Mark’s Folly stands as a rare example of a personal architectural landscape, combining artistic vision, improvisation and long-term dedication within a secluded Welsh setting.