Monmouthshire (historic)

Monmouthshire (historic)

Monmouthshire, also known as the County of Monmouth, is a historic county in South East Wales. The county was formed under the Laws in Wales Act 1535, and it was named after the historic town of Monmouth. The county is bordered by Gloucestershire to the east, Herefordshire to the northeast, Breconshire to the north, and Glamorgan to the west.

History

The history of Monmouthshire is rich and varied. The area was originally inhabited by the Silures, a powerful Celtic tribe. After the Roman conquest of Britain, the area became part of the Roman province of Britannia. Following the end of Roman rule in Britain, the area was invaded by various Germanic tribes, including the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes.

In the Middle Ages, Monmouthshire was a key location in the Marcher Lordships, a series of semi-independent territories along the Welsh-English border. The county was officially created in 1535, when the Laws in Wales Act was passed by the English Parliament.

Geography

Monmouthshire is located in the southeastern part of Wales, bordering England. The county is largely rural, with a number of small towns and villages. The largest town is Monmouth, which is also the county's historic capital. The county is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the Wye Valley, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Economy

Historically, the economy of Monmouthshire was based on agriculture and mining. Today, the economy is more diverse, with sectors such as tourism, manufacturing, and services playing a significant role. The county is also known for its high-quality food and drink products, including Welsh cider and cheese.

Culture

Monmouthshire has a rich cultural heritage, with a number of historic sites, including castles, churches, and museums. The county is also known for its festivals, such as the Monmouth Festival, one of the largest free music festivals in the UK.

See Also

• History of Wales
• Geography of Wales
• Economy of Wales
• Culture of Wales