Salisbury

Old Sarum Model from West

Salisbury from old Sarum

Salisbury Cathedral West Front

Louise Rayner Minster Street Salisbury

Secret Spitfires Memorial 3

The Guildhall (geograph 2437520)

Salisbury is a cathedral city in Wiltshire, England, with a rich history dating back to the Iron Age. It is renowned for its medieval Salisbury Cathedral, which boasts the tallest church spire in the United Kingdom. Salisbury is situated at the confluence of five rivers: the Avon, Nadder, Ebble, Wylye, and Bourne. This strategic location contributed to its early development as a settlement.

History

Salisbury's history is marked by its famous Salisbury Cathedral, completed in 1258. The cathedral is an outstanding example of Early English architecture, and it houses one of the four original copies of the Magna Carta. The city's layout is attributed to Bishop Richard Poore who decided to move the cathedral from Old Sarum to its current location in Salisbury, leading to the development of a planned grid pattern for the city.

Before the cathedral's construction, the area was of significance due to Old Sarum, an ancient hill fort that was the original site of Salisbury. Old Sarum's history stretches back to the Iron Age and it was later occupied by the Romans, Saxons, and Normans. However, due to disputes between the clergy and military and the site's lack of water, the decision was made to relocate the cathedral to its present site.

Economy

Salisbury's economy historically revolved around the market town model, benefiting from its position on the road from London to South West England. Today, the city maintains a strong retail sector, with the Old George Mall and the Cross Keys Shopping Centre being notable shopping destinations. Tourism also plays a significant role in Salisbury's economy, with visitors drawn to its historic sites, including the cathedral and the nearby Stonehenge.

Culture

Salisbury is a center for culture in Wiltshire, hosting the annual Salisbury International Arts Festival. The city is home to the Salisbury Playhouse, a prominent regional theatre, and the Salisbury Museum, which focuses on the archaeology of the surrounding area, including finds from Stonehenge.

Transport

Transport in Salisbury is well-developed, with the Salisbury railway station providing connections to London, Southampton, and Exeter. The city is also served by a network of bus routes connecting it to surrounding towns and villages.

Education

Salisbury has a range of educational institutions, including primary and secondary schools, as well as further education colleges like Wiltshire College & University Centre. The city's commitment to education ensures a well-educated workforce and contributes to the community's overall well-being.

Notable People

Several notable individuals hail from Salisbury, including the philosopher John of Salisbury, who was influential in the development of medieval scholarship. In more recent times, actors, writers, and other cultural figures have been associated with the city, contributing to its rich cultural heritage.

See Also

• Old Sarum
• Stonehenge
• Wiltshire