While we oft indulge ourselves in delicious Mexican nosh, only the well-travelled among us have managed to zip off to the land of Mayans, 20-odd hours away by plane.
A slice of Mexico lands in Singapore this August and September, at Gardens by the Bay’s Hanging Gardens – Mexican Roots, an exhibit with floral displays adorning replicas of pyramids, Aztec statues, and festive arches.
Image credit: Gardens by the Bay
There’s no way many of us would survive without our beloved WiFi, but the ancient civilisation thrived in an era of primitive technology. History recap: the Mayans built the Chichén Itzá pyramids, one of the 7 Wonders of the world, and you can now view a 4.5m-tall reproduction of it at Gardens by the Bay’s Flower Dome.
Image credit: Gardens by the Bay
If you can’t visit the ancient city of Tula, Hidalgo, take heart that you can snap photos with the iconic giants of the Temple of the Morning Star here instead. These are said to be the warriors of the ancient Toltec civilisation.
Image credit: Gardens by the Bay
Replicas of the Mayan reclining figure of Chac Mool and the massive Olmec monuments also make an appearance, alongside an 18m-long double-headed serpent, also known as the mystical Maquizcoatl.
Olmec head monument.
Image credit: Gardens by the Bay
Double-headed serpent surrounded by 3,000 tillandsia plants.
Image credit: Gardens by the Bay
Giant structures aside, visitors will also be greeted by intricate details that give a nod to Mexico’s past. Keep an eye out for a colourful corn display, laid out in a rustic marketplace setting.
Image credit: Gardens by the Bay
There are also 7 mosaic art medallions painstakingly handmade by the Mexican community here in Singapore. All of these displays come surrounded by colourful blooms from orchids to bromeliads – because well, you’re in the Flower dome after all.
Image credit: Gardens by the Bay
The floral arch is handcrafted by 3rd generation artisan Mario Arturo Aguilar Gutierrez.
Image credit: Gardens by the Bay
Not all of us have set foot in Mexico, but it’s safe to say that we all love what we know of it so far. If the extent of your knowledge of Mexico stops short of guac and tacos, Hanging Gardens – Mexican Roots at Gardens by the Bay will clue you in on the rich history and culture of the country in store.
Price (Singaporeans and PR): $12 for adults, $8 for children and seniors
Price (Standard): $20 for adults, $12 for children and seniors
Date: Until 25th September 2022
Time: 9am-9pm, Daily
Venue: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Gardens by the Bay Flower Dome, Singapore 018953
Contact: 6420 6848 | Gardens by the Bay Flower Dome website
For more events and activities in Singapore:
Cover image adapted from: Gardens by the Bay
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