Durham United Kingdom History of Durham

History of Durham

The history of Durham can be traced back to 995 AD and the city’s future was secured following the Norman Conquest when the castle was constructed in 1072 followed by the grand cathedral 21 years later.

Built primarily to shelter the remains of St Cuthbert, the cathedral also doubled as a fortress against the Scots across the border.

The city came to more prominence in medieval times as a center of pilgrimage due to the miracles St Cuthbert was said to have performed in life and in death. His tomb still forms the centerpiece of Durham Cathedral, which also houses the shrine of St Bede – also drawing more pilgrims throughout the middle ages.

The city’s divine origins afforded it special status in Britain. As a County Palantine it was presided over by the Bishops of Durham and was ruled a practically independent nation with its own currency, nobility structure, laws and courts, and even its own army – powers that weren’t officially removed until 1832.

The 19^th century also led to the establishment of Durham University – England’s third after Oxford and Cambridge.

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