Chester is one of England’s best-preserved historic cities, with a past that stretches back almost 2,000 years so makes a wonderful local study with the advantage of linking to any period in history. Founded by the Romans as Deva Victrix around AD 79, Chester was an important military fortress guarding the north-west of Roman Britain. Its distinctive walls, which still encircle the city today, began as Roman defences and were strengthened throughout the medieval period. After the Norman Conquest, Chester became a powerful border city, guarding England’s frontier with Wales.
During the Middle Ages, it developed as a centre of trade and administration, benefiting from its position on the River Dee and its role as a port. In later centuries, Chester’s military importance declined, but its historic character was preserved. Today, the city’s Roman remains, medieval streets, half-timbered buildings, and unique Rows reflect its long history as a place of
