The History of Canterbury

A settlement has been at Canterbury since prehistoric times. Finds have been discovered from the Bronze Age, Neolithic round barrows and the Romans. The settlement has grown vastly over the years, but still retains reminders of the past.

The Romans in Canterbury

Durovernum Cantiacorum is the location of Modern Canterbury. Around 43 A.D. a fort was built at the junction of 3 Roman Roads. The fort became a town which grew, with a theatre, baths and temples built on the site. The location became the most important settlements in Kent and soon Watling Street became a major Roman road. The Roman city survived until the mid-5th Century, when the Anglo-Saxons took over.

The Saxons, Canterbury and Christianity

The Saxons re-settled in Canterbury after the Romans abandoned the town. In 596 A.D. the Pope sent Augustine to convert England to Christianity. His journey lead Augustine to Kent, where King Aethelbert allowed him to build a priory in Canterbury. He also built an abbey outside the city walls which, with Saint Martin's Church, make up a World Heritage site.

Further History of Canterbury

Canterbury has a vast history, much more than we could ever put on this site, so if you would like to visit the town and investigate it further please visit our Accomodation category to find the perfect place to stay.

If you cannot visit the town, our Books Page can offer you some further reading on the subject.