Archaeological excavations have revealed a section of a medieval wall surrounding St Oswald’s Priory in Gloucester, shedding new light on the city’s rich history. The City Council’s archaeological team has been diligently working to uncover and preserve this important vestige of the past.
St Oswald’s Priory, originally established by Queen Aethelflaed in 900 AD, now remains largely as the north wall and its arcade. These remnants also feature architectural modifications from the 12th and 13th centuries, reflecting centuries of continuous use and adaptation.
Westgate councillor Rebecca Trimnell expressed her enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the renewed appreciation for this historic landmark. “It has always been a wonderful historical landmark, but for many years it was looking very unloved,” Trimnell said. “Thanks to the dedication of many individuals, the site now boasts new lighting and interpretative boards, making it more accessible and engaging for visitors.”
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The restoration and maintenance of St Oswald’s Priory underscore the importance of preserving Gloucester’s heritage for future generations. The City Council has reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing conservation efforts.
Queen Aethelflaed, daughter of King Alfred the Great, played a pivotal role in Gloucester’s development. Beyond founding St Oswald’s Priory, she reorganized and fortified Gloucester as a burgh, a walled town designed to defend against Viking incursions. Remarkably, the modern layout of Gloucester’s streets still traces the design from the 10th century, itself influenced by the city’s Roman foundations.