The Effect of the Norman Invasion on Anglo-Saxon Garden Design

The Effect of the Norman Invasion on Anglo-Saxon Garden Design The Anglo-Saxon way of life was considerably changed by the introduction of the Normans in the later eleventh century. The Normans were better than the Anglo-Saxons at architecture and horticulture when they came into power. But before centering on home-life or having the occasion to consider domestic architecture or decoration, the Normans had to subjugate an entire population. Because of this, castles were cruder structures than monasteries: Monasteries were frequently important stone buildings set in the biggest and most fecund valleys, while castles were constructed on windy crests where their citizens devoted time and space to tasks for offense and defense. Gardening, a quiet occupation, was impracticable in these fruitless fortifications. Berkeley Castle is perhaps the most unchanged model in existence nowadays of the early Anglo-Norman form of architecture. It is said that the keep was developed during William the Conqueror's time. An enormous terrace encompasses the building, serving as an impediment to assailants attempting to dig under the castle walls. One of these terraces, a charming bowling green, is covered grass and flanked by an old yew hedge trimmed into the form of crude battlements.

Bernini: The Genius Behind Italy's Most Impressive Fountains

Bernini: The Genius Behind Italy's Most Impressive Fountains One can see Bernini's earliest masterpiece, the Barcaccia fountain, at the bottom of the Trinita dei Monti in Piaza di Spagna. To this day, you will find Roman locals and vacation goers occupying this spot to revel in chit chatter and being among other people. One of the city’s most stylish gathering places are the streets surrounding Bernini's fountain, which would certainly have brought a smile to the great Bernini. Dating back to around 1630, Pope Urbano VIII mandated what was to be the very first water fountain of the master's career. Depicted in the fountain's design is a large ship gradually sinking into the Mediterranean Sea. According to 16th century reports, a great flood of the Tevere covered the entire area in water, an event which was commemorated by the eye-catching fountain. In 1665 Bernini traveled to France, in what was to be his sole extended absence from Italy.