Chester
Chester’s origins can be traced back to the Roman times in the first century AD when it was called Fortress Diva after the River Dee upon which it stands. The Vikings, Danes, Saxons, Scots, and Normans have also occupied the settlement at various times since, but the greatest influence on the city was its maritime trade along the River Dee during the 12th to 14th centuries, which brought with it commercial and cultural prosperity. The city walls were built by the Romans and today you can follow a two-mile trail along the walls which give some lovely views of the city.
Dating from the 14th Century, Chester is famous for its old stone and timber black and white buildings including the Rows the medieval two-tier buildings above street level with covered walkways which today house many of Chester’s shopping galleries.
The ancient city centre Cross is where you will find the Town Crier at 12 noon Tuesday-Saturday, Easter to September.
During Victorian times the magnificent gothic-style Town Hall was built and the famous Eastgate Clock was erected in honour of Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.
The Roman Gardens are located close to the Roman Amphitheatre and easily accessible from the city walls and well worth a visit, along with the three modern mosaics, there is a path which lead through gardens, through the terrace which leads down to the river. While strolling through the gardens, look for the large section of the city wall that looks like it has been repaired. This was where, during the Civil War of 1645, Parliamentarian forces used cannons to create a breach large enough for troops to pass through. There is a very pleasant coffee shop once you reach the river.
The Cathedral, is also well worth a visit, it was originally built in 1092 as a Benedictine monastery dedicated to St Werburgh, The church was rebuilt from 1250 in Gothic style, taking 275 years and resulting in the incredible structure seen today. and became a Church of England cathedral in 1541.
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