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The origin of taverns signs goes back to Roman times. Vine leaves would be
hung outside the establishments to show that wine was for sale. Where beer
was sold, a long pole or ale stake, which may have been used for stirring
ale, was hung outside the door. After monasteries were formed, these were
required to provide shelter for travellers and so hospices were built close
by. During the 8th century, these began to also provide food and refreshment
to the public. They became known as taverns, derived from the Latin taberna
and were distinct from the local rough and ready alehouses. These signs
later became far more ornamental and were often skilfully crafted from
wrought iron. There are still many blacksmiths with the skills to reproduce
these wonderful works of art. |
