The Impact of the Norman Invasion on Anglo-Saxon Landscaping
The Impact of the Norman Invasion on Anglo-Saxon Landscaping The introduction of the Normans in the later half of the eleventh century considerably altered The Anglo-Saxon ways of living. The Normans were much better than the Anglo-Saxons at architecture and horticulture when they came into power. But there was no time for home life, domestic architecture, and decoration until the Normans had conquered the whole region.
Because of this, castles were cruder structures than monasteries: Monasteries were frequently immense stone buildings set in the biggest and most fecund valleys, while castles were erected on windy crests where their residents dedicated time and space to projects for offense and defense. Tranquil pastimes such as gardening were out of place in these desolate citadels. The early Anglo-Norman style of architecture is depicted in Berkeley Castle, which is perhaps the most untouched illustration we have. The keep is said to date from the time of William the Conqueror. An enormous terrace encompasses the building, serving as an obstacle to assailants trying to excavate under the castle walls. On 1 of these terraces sits a quaint bowling green: it is covered in grass and flanked by an old yew hedge that is formed into the shape of rough ramparts.
The Source of Modern Day Garden Water Fountains
The Source of Modern Day Garden Water Fountains
Hundreds of ancient Greek records were translated into Latin under the auspices of the scholarly Pope Nicholas V, who ruled the Roman Catholic Church from 1397 to 1455. It was imperative for him to embellish the city of Rome to make it worthy of being known as the capital of the Christian world. Restoration of the Acqua Vergine, a ruined Roman aqueduct which had carried clean drinking water into the city from eight miles away, began in 1453 at the bidding of the Pope. The ancient Roman custom of building an imposing commemorative fountain at the point where an aqueduct arrived, also known as a mostra, was restored by Nicholas V. The architect Leon Battista Alberti was directed by the Pope to construct a wall fountain where we now see the Trevi Fountain. The aqueduct he had reconditioned included modifications and extensions which eventually allowed it to supply water to the Trevi Fountain as well as the renowned baroque fountains in the Piazza del Popolo and the Piazza Navona.
Keep Your Fountain Clean
Keep Your Fountain Clean It is essential to carefully maintain water fountains for them to work optimally. It is essential to clean it out and get rid of any debris or foreign elements that might have fallen into or onto it. On top of that, algae can be a problem, as sunshine hitting the water allows it to form easily. To stay clear of this, take vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or sea salt and add directly into the water. There are those who choose to use bleach, but that is hazardous to any animals that might drink or bathe in the water - so should therefore be avoided.Every 3-4 months, garden fountains should undergo a good cleaning. Before you can start washing it you must empty out all of the water. As soon as it is empty, clean inside the reservoir with a gentle cleanser. Feel free to use a toothbrush if needed for any stubborn crevasses. Any soap residue left on your fountain can damage it, so be sure it is all rinsed off.
It is highly suggested taking the pump apart to better clean the inside and remove any plankton or calcium. Letting it soak in vinegar for several hours first will make it alot easier to clean. Build-up can be a big headache, so use mineral or rain water over tap water, when possible, to prevent this dilemma.
Lastly, make sure your fountain is always full by looking at it every day - this will keep it in tip-top condition.
Low water levels can ruin the pump - and you don't want that!