Houses of Hereford 1200-1700

Hereford is a well-preserved medieval city with an astonishingly well-preserved medieval plan and contains some of the earliest houses still in everyday use anywhere in England. Three leading authorities on the buildings of the English Midlands have examined 24 of the most important buildings, from the Bishops Palace of 1190 to the first surviving brick town-house of 1690. Owners and builders are identified from documentary sources.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 224 pages
\n Publication date: 31 May 2018
\n Publisher: Oxbow Books
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Hereford, a cathedral city nestled within the Welsh Marches, holds a captivating historical secret that has remained largely undiscovered. While its Anglo-Saxon origins have been extensively studied through remarkable excavations conducted in the 1960s and 70s, its medieval layout and the existence of some of the oldest inhabited houses in England remain relatively lesser-known. To unravel the intricate tapestry of this historic city, three esteemed authorities on the buildings of the English Midlands have come together, combining meticulous archaeological surveys, primary historical research, and detailed topographical analysis. Their collective effort has resulted in a comprehensive examination of 24 of Hereford's most significant buildings, spanning from the grand hall of the Bishops Palace, constructed around 1190, to the earliest surviving brick townhouse, dating back to approximately 1690.

The case studies presented in this captivating book are accompanied by a wealth of fully illustrated photographs, historic maps, and explanatory diagrams. These visual aids enhance our understanding of the architectural evolution and cultural significance of Hereford throughout different periods. From the canonical and mercantile hall-houses of the Middle Ages to the opulent mansions, commercial premises, and modest suburban dwellings of the early modern era, the case studies offer a comprehensive glimpse into the city's architectural heritage.

Wherever possible, the authors have sought to identify the owners and builders of these remarkable structures. They have scoured documentary sources, ranging from the Bishop of Hereford and the medieval cathedral canons to civic office-holding merchant dynasties and even minor tradesmen known primarily for their brushes with the law. The stories behind these individuals and their contributions to the city's architectural development are woven into the narrative, providing a rich and textured perspective on Hereford's historical evolution.

In conclusion, "Hereford: The Hidden Medieval City" is a remarkable work that unveils the hidden treasures of this cathedral city. Through meticulous research and comprehensive analysis, the authors have shed light on Hereford's rich architectural heritage, showcasing its medieval plan and the remarkable preservation of its oldest houses. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in history, architecture, or the cultural significance of the Welsh Marches. It not only provides a valuable insight into the past but also serves as a testament to the enduring beauty and significance of Hereford's buildings.

\n Weight: 1170g\n
Dimension: 222 x 284 x 20 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781785708169\n \n