Canterbury

Huguenot canterbury

Canterbury castle - geograph.org.uk - 1270897

The Buttermarket, Canterbury - geograph.org.uk - 825195

River Stour in Canterbury, England - May 08

Canterbury town walls - geograph.org.uk - 1117994

Canterbury is a historic English cathedral city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, situated in the heart of the City of Canterbury, a local government district of Kent, England. It lies on the River Stour.

History

The history of Canterbury dates back to the Prehistoric period with evidence of Mesolithic settlement. By the Iron Age, a Celtic tribe known as the Cantiaci inhabited the area. The Roman conquest of Britain in the 1st century AD saw the establishment of Durovernum Cantiacorum, a Roman fort and settlement where Canterbury stands today.

Following the withdrawal of the Romans from Britain, the town became the center of the Kingdom of Kent and a significant focus in the early history of Christianity in England, after Saint Augustine was sent by Pope Gregory I in 597 to convert the Anglo-Saxons. The Canterbury Cathedral, founded in 597 AD, is one of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in England. It is the cathedral of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the leader of the Church of England and the worldwide Anglican Communion.

The city's medieval history is also of significance. The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer, written in the late 14th century, are a collection of stories told by pilgrims on their way to Canterbury and the shrine of Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury who was murdered in the cathedral in 1170.

Geography

Canterbury is located in the southeastern part of England, in the county of Kent, and is accessible by the M2 motorway. The city is surrounded by farmland and is known for its picturesque landscapes and historic buildings.

Economy

The economy of Canterbury is largely driven by tourism, due to its rich history and the presence of the cathedral. Education is another significant sector, with the University of Kent, Canterbury Christ Church University, and other higher education institutions located in and around the city. Retail also plays an important role in the local economy, with a variety of shops and boutiques in the city center.

Culture

Canterbury's culture is deeply influenced by its history and heritage. The city hosts the annual Canterbury Festival, one of the most important cultural events in the East Kent region, featuring music, theatre, dance, and a variety of performances. The Marlowe Theatre and the Gulbenkian Theatre offer a wide range of theatrical and musical performances throughout the year.

Education

Canterbury is a center for education in Kent, hosting two major universities: the University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University. These institutions contribute to the city's vibrant student population and cultural diversity.

Transport

The city is served by two railway stations, Canterbury West and Canterbury East, providing connections to London and other parts of Kent. The A2 and M2 motorway offer road access to London and the Channel Ports.

See also

• List of bishops of Canterbury
• Canterbury Cathedral
• St Augustine's Abbey
• St Martin's Church, Canterbury