Anglo Saxon Grounds During the Norman Conquest

Anglo Saxon Grounds During the Norman Conquest The arrival of the Normans in the 2nd half of the 11th century irreparably improved The Anglo-Saxon lifestyle. The talent of the Normans exceeded the Anglo-Saxons' in design and agriculture at the time of the conquest. But before centering on home-life or having the occasion to think about domestic architecture or decoration, the Normans had to subjugate an entire society. Most often built upon windy summits, castles were straightforward structures that permitted their inhabitants to spend time and space to offensive and defensive strategies, while monasteries were rambling stone buildings generally added in only the most fecund, broad valleys. Peaceful pastimes such as gardening were out of place in these destitute citadels. The finest example of the early Anglo-Norman style of architecture existent presently is Berkeley Castle. It is said that the keep was created during William the Conqueror's time. A monumental terrace serves as a deterrent to invaders who would try to mine the walls of the building. Anglo Saxon Grounds Norman Conquest 35393042361924083085.jpg

Anglo Saxon Grounds Norman Conquest 35393042361924083085.jpg

One of these terraces, a charming bowling green, is covered grass and flanked by an old yew hedge cut into the shape of crude battlements.

The Original Outdoor Fountains

The Original Outdoor Fountains As originally conceived, water fountains were designed to be practical, directing water from creeks or reservoirs to the residents of cities and settlements, where the water could be used for cooking, cleaning, and drinking. In the years before electrical power, the spray of fountains was powered by gravity exclusively, often using an aqueduct or water supply located far away in the surrounding hills. Striking and spectacular, large water fountains have been crafted as memorials in nearly all societies. If you saw the earliest fountains, you wouldn't identify them as fountains. The first accepted water fountain was a stone basin carved that served as a receptacle for drinking water and ceremonial functions. The original stone basins are presumed to be from around 2000 BC. The force of gravity was the energy source that controlled the oldest water fountains. Positioned near aqueducts or creeks, the functional public water fountains provided the local population with fresh drinking water. Fountains with embellished Gods, mythological monsters, and animals began to appear in Rome in about 6 B.C., crafted from natural stone and bronze. The City of Rome had an intricate system of aqueducts that supplied the water for the many fountains that were located throughout the urban center.