London's transformation from Roman Londinium to medieval London was a journey of resilience and adaptation. The city evolved from a planned Roman settlement to a thriving medieval metropolis, overcoming periods of decline and invasion.

The River Thames played a crucial role in London's development, serving as a lifeline for trade and commerce. The city's structure shifted from the orderly Roman grid to the organic medieval layout, reflecting changing needs and priorities over time.

Roman Londinium to Medieval London

London's development: Roman to medieval

• Roman foundation of Londinium (43 CE) established military and trading settlement at strategic location on River Thames, facilitating control and commerce
• Post-Roman decline (5th-6th centuries) saw abandonment of Roman structures and shift to wooden buildings as population decreased and urban infrastructure deteriorated
• Saxon resettlement (7th-9th centuries) established Lundenwic as trading center west of Roman walls, revitalizing economic activity
• Viking invasions and Alfred the Great's restoration (9th century) led to reoccupation of Roman walled area, fortification improvements, and street grid restoration for defense
• Norman Conquest and medieval growth (11th-15th centuries) sparked construction of Tower of London, expansion beyond city walls, and development of guilds and trade, transforming urban landscape

Roman impact on Londinium

• Grid street pattern with cardo maximus (north-south) and decumanus maximus (east-west) formed backbone of city layout
• Defensive walls and gates, including London Wall construction (190-225 CE), provided security and defined city limits
• Public buildings and infrastructure included forum and basilica for governance, amphitheater for entertainment, and public baths for hygiene and socializing
• River port facilities featured wooden quays and warehouses, facilitating trade and economic growth
• Road network connected Londinium to other Roman settlements (Verulamium, Camulodunum) enhancing regional integration

River Thames in medieval London

• Transportation hub linked inland and maritime trade routes, facilitating exchange of goods (wool, wine)
• Port facilities expanded with wharves, docks, and Custom House for tax collection and trade regulation
• Fishing industry provided food source and employment opportunities for local population
• Water supply crucial for drinking water and sanitation, though often polluted
• Social and recreational activities included Frost Fairs during Little Ice Age, offering entertainment on frozen river
• Bridges as focal points exemplified by London Bridge, serving as center of commerce with shops and houses

Roman vs medieval London structure

• Roman London featured planned grid layout, stone public buildings, standardized housing (insulae), and emphasis on civic spaces (forum, baths)
• Medieval London developed organic street patterns, timber-framed buildings, narrow winding streets, and focus on religious structures (St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey)
• Defensive structures evolved from Roman stone walls with gates to expanded and reinforced medieval walls with additional fortifications
• Central authority shifted from Imperial Roman governance to medieval royal and civic administration (Guildhall)
• Economic focus transitioned from Roman military and administrative center to medieval commercial and craft production hub (Cheapside, Smithfield)