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Behind The Scenes: Garden of Plenty
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Thanks to a committed restoration programme, the Lost Gardens of Heligan aren't lost any more. Today, the gardens are just as bountiful as they were during their heyday in the late 19th century. So there's every reason for Heligan's staff to celebrate the annual harvest, just like all farmers since the birth of civilisation.

 

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For gardener Annie Carr, Heligan's annual harvest display is a chance to showcase the estate's produce and to celebrate all the hard work that goes into growing it. There's plenty to choose from when it comes to planning the display. The gardens produce more than 200 varieties of fruit and vegetables. Heligan's harvest celebrations echo a tradition of seasonal observances that stretch back thousands of years.

Fertility Rites
The ancient Egyptians possessed a well-developed solar calendar and were keen observers of the changing seasons. In April, they worshipped Min, the god of fertility and harvest. The pharaoh and his wife would enact sacred marriage rites at a shrine dedicated to Min. Next, there was a ceremony in which arrows were shot and birds released in the direction of all four points of the compass. Once all the formalities were finished, the Egyptians enjoyed a huge feast with performances of music, dance and sport.
 
 
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