The City of London: From Roman Beginnings to a Global Capital

The City of London is unlike any other place in the world. Occupying just one square mile, it is a living record of over two thousand years of history—where ancient walls, medieval institutions, and modern skyscrapers coexist in daily use.

To understand London today, you must begin at the very start of the City itself.

Londinium: The Roman Foundations (c. AD 43)

The story of the City of London begins with the Roman invasion of Britain in AD 43. Shortly after their arrival, the Romans established Londinium on the north bank of the River Thames.

The location was chosen carefully. The Thames provided access for trade, a defensible crossing point, and a direct route into the heart of Roman Britain. What began as a modest settlement quickly became one of the most important cities in the province.

By the late 1st century, Londinium featured stone walls, a forum, bathhouses, an amphitheatre, and a growing population of merchants, soldiers, and administrators. Despite being destroyed during Boudica’s rebellion in AD 60, the city was rebuilt larger and stronger.

Decline and Survival After Rome (5th–9th Century)

When Roman rule collapsed in the early 5th century, Londinium entered a period of decline. Much of the population left the walled city, and organised urban life faded.

For several centuries, activity shifted west to Lundenwic, near today’s Covent Garden and Strand. Trade continued, but on a smaller scale, and the Roman city stood largely empty.

The revival came in the late 9th century when King Alfred the Great resettled the old Roman walls to protect against Viking raids. This marked the rebirth of the City of London as a fortified and organised centre of power.

Medieval London and the Rise of Power (10th–15th Century)

During the Middle Ages, the City of London became England’s most important commercial centre. Merchants, craftsmen, and traders flourished along the River Thames, while guilds regulated trade and standards.

The City gained unique privileges, including self-governance through aldermen and an elected mayor—rights granted and reaffirmed by English monarchs. These freedoms formed the basis of the City’s independence, which continues today through the City of London Corporation.

Medieval London was densely built, busy, and noisy. St Paul’s Cathedral stood at the heart of civic life, while narrow streets connected markets, churches, and guild halls.

Fire, Plague, and Rebuilding (16th–17th Century)

The 17th century brought two of the greatest disasters in London’s history.

The Great Plague of 1665 killed tens of thousands, followed a year later by the Great Fire of London, which destroyed much of the medieval City.

Yet this destruction led to renewal. The City was rebuilt using brick and stone, with wider streets and improved sanitation. Under Sir Christopher Wren, landmarks such as the new St Paul’s Cathedral reshaped London’s skyline.

Empire, Trade, and Financial Power (18th–19th Century)

As Britain expanded its global influence, the City of London became the financial engine of the empire. Banks, insurers, and trading houses established London as the world’s leading centre for commerce.

Institutions such as the Bank of England and Lloyd’s of London cemented the City’s international role. The Thames bustled with ships carrying goods from across the globe, while railways connected the capital to the rest of the country.

By the Victorian era, the City was wealthy, influential, and densely populated during working hours—a pattern that still defines it today.

The 20th Century: War and Reinvention

The City suffered heavy damage during the Second World War, particularly during the Blitz. Historic buildings were lost, but once again, London rebuilt.

Post-war redevelopment introduced modern office buildings alongside surviving historic structures. In 1986, financial deregulation known as the Big Bang transformed the City into a fast-moving global financial centre.

Glass towers rose above ancient streets, reflecting the City’s ability to adapt while retaining its identity.

The City of London Today

Today, the City of London is a place of striking contrast. Medieval churches sit beside steel and glass skyscrapers. Ancient ceremonies continue alongside cutting-edge technology and global finance.

The City retains its own governance, police force, and traditions, making it unique not only within London, but worldwide.

It remains a working city—busy by day, quieter by night—yet increasingly rich in culture, dining, and history.

A City That Endures

From Roman Londinium to a modern financial capital, the City of London has survived invasion, plague, fire, war, and economic change. Each time, it has adapted without losing its character.

The City of London is not a museum. It is a living record of continuity, resilience, and progress—proof that history and modern life can exist side by side.

And that is why the City of London continues to endure.