John Wood – The Circus

Reoccurring in various parts of the British Isles, semi-circular or circular compositions (such as Stonehenge and Woodhenge) are not without precedents in England. The complex in Bath is a significant example illustrating this. Georgian buildings from the 18th century adhering to each other within a framework were built from locally-quarried, golden-sandy-brown limestone. Much like the African examples referred to here, the elegant Royal Crescent and Circus ensemble conveys a strong sense of togetherness, in this case primarily within the context of a hierarchy. The Palladian buildings were designed by John Wood Snr and Jnr, to be built in Bath, which is the sole bath centre of England, for the royal family and their retinues. This development surrounds an enormous garden used as a venue for social events.