Winchester
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Winchester is a city in Southern England and served as the capital of Wessex during the Anglo-Saxon rule of England.
History
Roman era
Evidence shows that Romans came across the abandoned Iron Age fortification of Oppidum and founded a new city, Venta Belgarum upon its location in 70 CE. During the Roman Occupation of Britain a street grid was laid out, defenses were built, the river Itchen diverted, and stone walls were built, while the city became the predominant city in southern England, eclipsing Silchester and Chichester within 150 years of its founding. It would be abandoned around 410, though, as the Romans left Britain.
Middle Ages
By the 6th century Winchester had been reclaimed by the Saxons that now ruled England and the name of Venta Balgarum had been translated to old English as Wintan-caestre. In 648 King Celwah had the Church of SS Peter and Paul erected. This would go on to become a seat for the Bishop of Winchester and Diocese of Winchester, with this church being eventually known as the "Old Minster".
By the 9th Century, Winchester was described as the "premier West Saxon city" and served as a capital for the Saxon Kings of Wessex. During his reign, Alfred the Great would tear down the Roman street grid in order to create a new street layout and better fortifications in the city to withstand potential Viking raids.
Following the Norman Invasion in 1066, the Old Minster was torn down and rebuilt into the modern Cathedral of Winchester. The new king further moved the capital city to London. During this same time, the older Roman fortifications and palaces being used were built up become the modern Wolvesey Castle and Winchester Castle.
Appearances
- Assassin's Creed: Valhalla (first appearance)