Anglo Saxon Grounds During the Norman Conquest

Anglo Saxon Grounds During the Norman Conquest The Anglo-Saxon way of life was dramatically changed by the introduction of the Normans in the later eleventh century. Engineering and gardening were skills that the Normans excelled in, trumping that of the Anglo-Saxons at the time of the occupation. Anglo Saxon Grounds Norman Conquest 0541135223.jpg

Anglo Saxon Grounds Norman Conquest 0541135223.jpg

Still, home life, household architecture, and decoration were out of the question until the Normans taken over the rest of the population. Because of this, castles were cruder buildings than monasteries: Monasteries were usually important stone buildings set in the biggest and most fertile valleys, while castles were constructed on windy crests where their citizens dedicated time and space to projects for offense and defense. Gardening, a placid occupation, was unfeasible in these fruitless fortifications. Berkeley Castle, maybe the most uncorrupted model of the early Anglo-Norman style of architecture, still exists today. The keep is rumored to have been developed during the time of William the Conqueror. A monumental terrace serves as a hindrance to intruders who would try to mine the walls of the building. One of these terraces, a charming bowling green, is covered grass and flanked by an old yew hedge trimmed into the shape of crude battlements.

Gian Lorenzo Bernini's Outdoor Fountains

Gian Lorenzo Bernini's Outdoor Fountains There are numerous celebrated fountains in Rome’s city center. Gian Lorenzo Bernini, one of the best sculptors and artists of the 17th century planned, conceived and built nearly all of them. Also a city builder, he had abilities as a fountain designer, and remnants of his life's work are evident throughout the avenues of Rome. To completely exhibit their art, mainly in the form of public water fountains and water fountains, Bernini's father, a renowned Florentine sculptor, mentored his young son, and they eventually relocated in the City of Rome. An diligent employee, the young Bernini earned praise and the backing of various popes and important artists. At first he was recognized for his sculpting skills. An expert in historical Greek architecture, he utilized this knowledge as a starting point and melded it seamlessly with Roman marble, most remarkably in the Vatican. Though many artists had an impact on his work, Michelangelo had the most profound effect.