Both strange and beautiful, the Pineapple has always amazed and inspired visitors. It was built in 1761 by the Earl of Dunmore as a summerhouse where he could appreciate the views from his estate. At this time, pineapples were among Scotland’s most exotic foods.
The intricately carved stone pineapple, which is situated between the two bothies, forms an elaborate cupola atop an octagonal pavilion, with sash windows topped with Gothic ogee arches on seven sides and a door, topped with an ogee transom, on the eighth.
The pineapple is around 14 metres (46 ft) high and constitutes a stunning example of the stonemason's craft, being a remarkably accurate depiction of a pineapple. Each of the curving stone leaves is separately drained to prevent frost damage, and the "stiff serrated edges of the lowest and topmost leaves and the plum berry-like fruits are all cunningly graded so that water cannot accumulate anywhere, ensuring that frozen trapped water cannot damage the delicate stonework."
Courtesy of Wikipedia:
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dunmore_Pineapple
It is possible to rent part of this building for a vacation.
14 comments
Roger (Grisly) said:
Patrick Brandy said:
J.Garcia said:
Wonderfully shown and great information, Amelia
volker_hmbg said:
Andrew Trundlewagon said:
Keith Burton said:
I read an article that explained that because, in those days, pineapples were so rare that only the rich could afford them, and of course they enjoyed showing off about it. Apparently that is why pineapple shaped sculptures are quite common on gateposts etc..........but this guy must have REALLY wanted to show off :-))
Ulrich John said:
Jean-louis Thiaudier… said:
Peter Castell said:
Daniela Brocca said:
Gudrun said:
Nicole Merdrignac said:
Rosalyn Hilborne said:
Leo W said: