In 1988 and 1989 large areas in the centre of Worcester were excavated,
in advance of the construction of a shopping centre, providing a unique
opportunity to examine the development of the city. Although little
prehistoric evidence was recovered, the project identified the remains
of a Roman small town, with most intense occupation between the 2nd and
4th century. The evidence indicated that ironworking and livestock were
two staples of the town's economy. Medieval discoveries included
Anglo-Saxon defences, evidence of Anglo-Norman lime-burning and
metalworking, and the first complete plan of an 11th- or 12th-century
stone hall uncovered in Worcester. A later medieval bronze foundry was
also recorded. This substantial and well-presented report publishes
descriptions of the archaeological remains, with a full chronological
synthesis, and numerous specialist finds reports on pottery, building
materials, ironworking residues, metalwork, jewellery, glass, coins,
inscriptions, worked stone, bone and antler tools, human skeletal
remains and other environmental remains. Many of the features and finds
are illustrated.