Have you ever wondered what London was called before the Romans invaded Britain? Well, you’re not alone!
The history of this great city is a fascinating one, and it all started long before the Roman Empire. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of London’s name and its early history.
The Pre-Roman Era
London has a rich and ancient history that dates back to prehistoric times. Before the Romans arrived in Britain in 43 AD, there were already settlements in the area that is now London. These early inhabitants were Celtic Britons who called their settlement ‘Londinium’.
The Meaning of Londinium
The name ‘Londinium’ has its roots in Celtic language. It is believed to have been derived from the Celtic word ‘lond’, which means wild or bold. This would make sense as the early settlement was located on the banks of the River Thames, which was prone to flooding and surrounded by marshes.
Londinium Before The Romans
Before Londinium became a thriving Roman city, it was a small trading post for goods coming up and down the River Thames. The settlement was strategically located on a crossing point of the river, making it an ideal place for traders to stop and do business.
The Roman Era
In 43 AD, Emperor Claudius led a Roman invasion of Britain. The Romans quickly took control of Londinium and made it into a major city within their empire.
The New Name
When the Romans took control of Londinium, they changed its name to ‘Londinium Augusta’. The new name reflected its status as an important city within the Roman Empire.
The Growth of Londinium Augusta
Under Roman rule, Londinium Augusta grew rapidly in both size and importance. It became an important center for trade and commerce, with markets and shops lining its streets. The Romans also built many impressive public buildings, including a forum, basilica, and temple.
The Post-Roman Era
In the early 5th century AD, the Roman Empire began to decline. As a result, Londinium Augusta was abandoned by the Romans and left to decay.
The Anglo-Saxon Era
After the departure of the Romans, Londinium Augusta was largely forgotten. It wasn’t until the arrival of Anglo-Saxon tribes in the 6th century AD that London began to be repopulated.
The Anglo-Saxons gave London a new name: ‘Lundenwic’. The name meant ‘London trading town’ and reflected its status as an important center for trade.
In Conclusion
So there you have it – London’s history before the Romans. From its origins as a small Celtic settlement called ‘Londinium’, to its transformation into a major Roman city known as ‘Londinium Augusta’, to its rebirth under Anglo-Saxon rule as ‘Lundenwic’. The history of this great city is a long and fascinating one that continues to captivate people from all over the world.
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