Hollywood's Haunts: Eerie Abandoned Film Sets Ready for Exploration
2. Hobbiton: A Journey to Middle-earth
Nestled in the rolling hills of Matamata, New Zealand, lies Hobbiton, the charming village from Peter Jackson's "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" trilogies. Originally constructed for the films, the set was dismantled after filming, only to be rebuilt for the later adaptations. Today, Hobbiton is a fully functioning tourist attraction, complete with lush gardens, the Green Dragon Inn, and the iconic hobbit holes. Visitors are transported to Middle-earth, where they can explore the Shire and experience the magic of J.R.R. Tolkien's world. Guided tours offer insights into the filmmaking process, revealing how Jackson brought the beloved books to life. Hobbiton stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Tolkien's stories and the artistry of the filmmakers who realized them on screen. It's a place where fantasy and reality converge, inviting visitors to step into a world of adventure and imagination.