Gardens and Fountains in the Dark Ages
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Home Family -> subcategory Gardening.
Gardens and Fountains in the Dark Ages
Overview
In tenth-century Europe, the Dark Ages reached their bleakest point, marked by industrial decline. Monasticism dwindled significantly over the previous two centuries, leading to the near extinction of horticultural arts. During this era, magnificent gardens, statuary, and decorative fountains became rare and fell into disrepair.
Revival in the Eleventh Century
However, the eleventh century saw a resurgence of religious fervor in England and across Europe, revitalizing these outdoor spaces. Under religious and military rule, people sought security in the former, enhancing the power and wealth of monasteries over castles. These religious sanctuaries became havens for the troubled, offering repentance, meditation, and refuge in a world where strength and prowess were vital for survival.
Influence of William the Conqueror
William the Conqueror and his followers introduced new architectural styles to castles, gardens, and monasteries in England. A zeal for founding monasteries, already prominent in Normandy, spread throughout the conquered lands. William himself spearheaded this movement, establishing and richly endowing several splendid abbeys featuring expansive gardens, adorned with fountains and statues. His affluent followers soon emulated his lead.
The Benedictine Order's Contribution
The Benedictine order thrived during this period of artistic garden renaissance. To minimize contact with the outside world, their rules mandated self-sufficiency within each community. While they refrained from consuming the flesh of four-footed animals, fish and fowl were common, and vegetable cultivation was crucial. These monasteries boasted large planters of vegetables, fish-filled fountains, duck ponds, poultry yards, orchards, and vineyards?"their pride and joy. Manual labor was essential, and the monks cherished creating lush gardens, complete with classical statuary and dramatic fountains.
Through this revival, monastic communities became centers of horticultural and artistic expression, nurturing a renewed appreciation for gardens and fountains amid the challenges of the Dark Ages.
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