Rubble

I have visited a couple of English Heritage sites recently. Both have been thoroughly plundered over the centuries, to provide stone for houses and walls in the vicinity, so exposing the rubble behind the stone facing. I have a strong affinity with rubble, as my house is built of rubble held together by dust, and it is reassuring to find evidence that rubble can last.

There's not much left of Roche Abbey but it retains a presence in its pretty, wooded valley with a stream flowing through the middle of the site. 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roche_Abbey

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The gate house is the most complete part of the abbey ruins and was the interface between the monks and those receiving alms. The rib vaulting was simple and elegant and I continue to be baffled as too why the in-fill does not collapse.

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Likewise the vaulting  in the church was beautifully straightforward and honest.. 

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Conisborough contains both a wonderful castle ruin and a fabulous church, which is thought to be the oldest building in South Yorkshire. Having left my tripod in the car I was only able to produce one reasonably sharp image.

http://www.heritageinspired.org.uk/partner?partner_ID=68

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The castle is impressive but some of it felt a little over restored. The six sided keep, with powerful supporting buttresses, is unique.

http://www.heritageinspired.org.uk/partner?partner_ID=68

The castle over looks the remains of the Earth Centre; one of the Tories more pathetic attempts to replace troublesome coal mines with themed tourist traps (and B&Q superstores) after the 1985 Miners' Strike.

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The castle is said to be haunted.

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