London Bridge: 2000 Years of a River Crossing (MoLAS Monograph)

The very existence of London came about because of its bridges. The Romans realized that it was the most convenient place to bridge the Thames estuary, which offers an excellent navigable routeway from the North Sea westwards far into central England, and constructed a series of bridges, which were in use from the first century AD at least until the fourth century. The great stone bridge, lined with houses and shops, was constructed 1176-1209. It quickly became one of the most recognizable visual images of London between the 13th and 17th centuries and one of the most important structures and spaces in medieval and early modern London, rich in historical events, contemporary activities and symbolism. It was home to a thriving residential and working population, but gaining access to the bridge was also vital to the success of protesting crowds and rebel armies.Tony Dyson is the author of 'London Bridge: 2000 Years of a River Crossing (MoLAS Monograph)' with ISBN 9781901992182 and ISBN 1901992187.