Anglo-Saxon Landscapes at the Time of the Norman Conquest

Anglo-Saxon Landscapes at the Time of the Norman Conquest Anglo-Saxons felt extraordinary changes to their daily lives in the latter half of the eleventh century due to the accession of the Normans. 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 contemplate domestic architecture or decoration, the Normans had to subjugate an entire society. Monasteries and castles served separate functions, so while monasteries were massive stone structures constructed in only the most productive, wide dales, castles were set upon blustery knolls where the occupants focused on learning offensive and defensive tactics. Tranquil pastimes such as gardening were out of place in these destitute citadels. Anglo-Saxon Landscapes Time Norman Conquest 4494837883.jpg

The early Anglo-Norman style of architecture is symbolized in Berkeley Castle, which is perhaps the most unscathed example we have. The keep is rumored to have been developed during the time of William the Conqueror. A large terrace intended for strolling and as a way to stop attackers from mining below the walls runs about the building. One of these terraces, a charming bowling green, is covered grass and flanked by an ancient yew hedge trimmed into the shape of crude battlements.

Aqueducts: The Remedy to Rome's Water Challenges

Aqueducts: The Remedy to Rome's Water Challenges With the manufacturing of the first elevated aqueduct in Rome, the Aqua Anio Vetus in 273 BC, folks who lived on the city’s hills no longer had to rely exclusively on naturally-occurring spring water for their needs. Aqueducts: Remedy Rome's Water Challenges 65573307077252000381.jpg

Aqueducts: Remedy Rome's Water Challenges 65573307077252000381.jpg

Outside of these aqueducts and springs, wells and rainwater-collecting cisterns were the only techniques obtainable at the time to supply water to spots of higher elevation. In the early 16th century, the city began to utilize the water that flowed beneath the earth through Acqua Vergine to supply drinking water to Pincian Hill. Spanning the length of the aqueduct’s passage were pozzi, or manholes, that gave entry. Though they were primarily manufactured to make it possible to support the aqueduct, Cardinal Marcello Crescenzi began using the manholes to get water from the channel, starting when he acquired the property in 1543. It appears that, the rainwater cistern on his property wasn’t enough to fulfill his needs. Fortunately, the aqueduct sat directly below his residence, and he had a shaft opened to give him access.