Early Origins: Roman and Anglo-Saxon Roots
Long before the medieval period, Lincoln was an important Roman settlement known as Lindum Colonia. Established around AD 50, it served as a fortress and later evolved into a colonia — a town for retired Roman soldiers. The city's Roman walls and streets laid the foundation for the medieval city that would follow.
Following the collapse of Roman rule in Britain during the 5th century, Lincoln became part of the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Mercia. The city's strategic location on a hill overlooking the Witham River made it a valuable military and trading site. Lincoln was mentioned in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, reflecting its importance as a regional center.
Norman Conquest and the Birth of Medieval Lincoln
The Norman Conquest of 1066 transformed England dramatically, and Lincoln was no exception. William the Conqueror recognized the city’s strategic significance. By the late 11th century, the Normans constructed Lincoln Castle, one of the largest and most formidable Norman castles in England, atop the ancient Roman walls. The castle served both as a military stronghold and as a symbol of Norman dominance.
The construction of Lincoln Cathedral shortly thereafter marked Lincoln as a major religious center. Completed in the early 12th century, Lincoln Cathedral was one of the tallest buildings in the world at the time, rivaling even the great cathedrals of Europe. It symbolized the city’s spiritual and political power. shutdown123