York Visitor Guide
The
ancient capital of Yorkshire is York, one of the great cities
of the medieval world. Still encircled by its ancient walls,
the city is dominated by the soaring pinnacles of York Minster,
the finest Gothic church in northern Europe.
From narrow streets, lively with chic cafes and specialist
shops, to trips on its tree-lined river, York is a treasure
house with a superb choice of museums and galleries.
York is one of the world's most fascinating cities with
surviving evidence from the different cultures that
have ruled the area.
York began as a fortress, built in AD71 by the Roman 9th
Legion for a campaign against the Brigantes tribe. It grew into an important
city, then known as Eboracum. Constantine the Great, who later founded
Constantinople, was made Roman Emperor here in AD306 .It
was the Vikings, who gave York its name, derived from
Jorvik or Yorwik.
Norman rule was to last longer and they made the city a vital centre
of government, commerce and religion for the north of
England.
Their work prepared it well for its important
role in the reigns of the Plantaganet Kings, and, in
1485 when this era ended and the Tudor age began, York
was at its zenith.
Long years of prosperity had ensured that the magnificent
Minster had finally been completed after work lasting 250 years.
It was not until the 18th century that York became a fashionable
resort and centre with Georgian elegance adding to its architectural and
historical attractions.
In
the following century, the Industrial Revolution and
the coming of the railway marked the start of a new
era of growth and prosperity. Today, York houses Britain's
National Railway Museum which is the largest railway
museum in the world.
The Map identifies the best known places of interest in the old city,
some of which are detailed on the 'Places to visit' page. Wherever you
go in York, you will find evidence of its history and make discoveries
of your own.
West of York is Selby, with its massive abbey as well as Tadcaster on the River Wharfe, noted for its brewery history.
