Monday, May 24, 2010

The charm of a dovecote?

What in the world is a dovecote? A dovecote or dovecot (Scots: Doocot) is a building intended to house pigeons or doves. Dovecotes may be square or circular free-standing structures or built into the end of a house or barn. They generally contain pigeonholes for the birds to nest. Pigeons and doves were an important food source historically in Western Europe and were kept for their eggs and meat. In Scotland the tradition is continued in modern urban areas.
In some cultures, particularly Medieval Europe, the possession of a dovecote was a symbol of status and power and was consequently regulated by law. Only nobles had this special privilege known as droit de colombier. Many ancient manors in France and the United Kingdom have a dovecote (still standing or in ruins) in one section of the manorial enclosure or in nearby fields. Examples include Château de Kerjean in Brittany, France, Houchin, France, Bodysgallen Hall in Wales, and Muchalls Castle and Newark Castle in Scotland.
The oldest dovecotes are thought to have been the fortified dovecotes of Upper Egypt, and the domed dovecotes of Iran.
This is the path that leads to the dovecote and potting shed...the wisteria has gone mad. Can this woman grow vines or what?

Can't think of a more appropriate handle for a potting shed door can you?

Inside the potting shed is basket heaven. This is where all the baskets end up after having a long hard life! They reunite with their loved ones!

And here is Mr. Francis peering out from the snap dragons...perhaps he has blessed this garden!