Anglo-Saxon Gardens at the Time of the Norman Conquest
Anglo-Saxon Gardens at the Time of the Norman Conquest Anglo-Saxons experienced extraordinary modifications to their day-to-day lives in the latter half of the eleventh century due to the accession of the Normans. Engineering and horticulture were attributes that the Normans excelled in, trumping that of the Anglo-Saxons at the time of the occupation. But before centering on home-life or having the occasion to contemplate domestic architecture or decoration, the Normans had to subjugate an entire society. Monasteries and castles served separate functions, so while monasteries were enormous stone structures assembled in only the most fruitful, wide dales, castles were set upon blustery knolls where the occupants focused on learning offensive and defensive practices. Tranquil activities such as gardening were out of place in these desolate citadels. The early Anglo-Norman style of architecture is symbolized in Berkeley Castle, which is most likely the most untouched sample we have.
The keep is said to date from William the Conqueror's time. An enormous terrace encompasses the building, serving as an obstacle to attackers trying to excavate under the castle walls. One of these terraces, a charming bowling green, is covered grass and flanked by an old yew hedge cut into the figure of crude battlements.
The Myriad Reasons to Include a Fountain
The Myriad Reasons to Include a Fountain
A great way to enhance the appearance of your outdoor living area is to add a wall fountain or an exterior garden fountain to your landscaping or garden design. Contemporary designers and fountain builders alike use historical fountains and water features to shape their creations. You can also reinforce the link to the past by adding one of these to your home's interior design. The benefit of having a garden fountain extends beyond its beauty as it also appeals to birds and other wildlife, in addition to harmonizing the ecosystem with the water and moisture it releases into the atmosphere. For example, birds lured by a fountain or birdbath can be helpful because they fend off bothersome flying insects. Spouting or cascading fountains are not the best alternative for a small yard since they occupy a great deal of space. There are two types of fountains to choose from including the freestanding model with a flat back and an attached basin set up against a fence or a wall in your yard, or the wall-mounted, self-contained variety which is hung directly on a wall. Both a fountain mask located on the existing wall as well as a basin located at the bottom to collect the water are equired if you wish to include a fountain. The plumbing and masonry work necessary for this type of work requires expertise, so it is best to employ a skilled person rather than do it yourself.