This illustrated history portrays one of England's finest cities. It
provides a nostalgic look at Canterbury's past and highlights the
special character of some of its most important historic sites. The
photographs are taken from the Historic England Archive, a unique
collection of over 12 million photographs, drawings, plans and documents
covering England's archaeology, architecture, social and local history.
Pictures date from the earliest days of photography to the present and
cover subjects from Bronze Age burials and medieval churches to cinemas
and seaside resorts. Canterbury's history stretches back to the Romans
and the foundation of the first cathedral in England in the seventh
century. It became a renowned pilgrim centre following the murder of
Thomas Becket in the cathedral in 1170, developing into one of the most
important cities in medieval England. Canterbury also prospered through
the textile industry, welcoming many French Huguenots. Although
extensively damaged during aerial bombardment during the Second World
War, this historic city today retains much of its ancient fabric
alongside the newly developed areas of the town including the University
of Kent, which was founded in 1965. This book will help you to discover
Canterbury's remarkable history.
