Anglo-Saxon Grounds During the Norman Conquest

Anglo-Saxon Grounds Norman Conquest 01103270660966.jpg

Anglo-Saxon Grounds During the Norman Conquest Anglo-Saxons experienced incredible changes to their day-to-day lives in the latter half of the eleventh century due to the accession of the Normans. The Normans were better than the Anglo-Saxons at architecture and horticulture when they came into power. But before focusing on home-life or having the occasion to think about domestic architecture or decoration, the Normans had to subjugate an entire population. Because of this, castles were cruder constructions than monasteries: Monasteries were often immense stone buildings located in the biggest and most fecund valleys, while castles were built on windy crests where their residents devoted time and space to tasks for offense and defense. The barren fortresses did not provide for the calm avocation of horticulture. Berkeley Castle is probably the most complete model in existence at present of the early Anglo-Norman style of architecture. The keep is reported to have been conceived during the time of William the Conqueror. A monumental terrace serves as a hindrance to intruders who would attempt to mine the walls of the building. On one of these terraces lies a stylish bowling green: it's covered in grass and flanked by an old yew hedge that is formed into the shape of rough ramparts.

A Brief History of Early Water Garden Fountains

A Brief History of Early Water Garden Fountains Water fountains were initially practical in function, used to bring water from rivers or creeks to towns and villages, supplying the inhabitants with fresh water to drink, bathe, and prepare food with. Gravity was the power supply of water fountains up until the end of the nineteenth century, using the potent power of water traveling down hill from a spring or brook to push the water through spigots or other outlets. Fountains all through history have been created as memorials, impressing local citizens and visitors alike. Brief History Early Water Garden Fountains 1683905668.jpg

Brief History Early Water Garden Fountains 1683905668.jpg

The common fountains of modern times bear little likeness to the first water fountains. Crafted for drinking water and ceremonial functions, the 1st fountains were very simple carved stone basins. Natural stone basins as fountains have been found from 2000 BC. The spray of water emerging from small jets was forced by gravity, the only power source designers had in those days. These historic water fountains were designed to be functional, often situated along aqueducts, creeks and waterways to supply drinking water. The Romans began building decorative fountains in 6 B.C., most of which were bronze or stone masks of creatures and mythological characters. The Romans had an intricate system of aqueducts that supplied the water for the countless fountains that were placed throughout the city.