Canterbury's history stretches back to the earliest British settlements. Under the Romans it became a strategically important town and subsequent centuries became the center of Christianity in England following Saint Augustine's mission to the Anglo Saxons. The cathedral which still dominates the city has witnessed centuries of momentous change in the country's history, including the murder of Archbishop Becket in 1170. The shrine became a pilgrim destination, celebrated in Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. In later centuries industries came to Canterbury, not least silk weaving brought by Huguenot refugees, and although the city suffered significant losses during bombing in the Second World War, much of its heritage has been retained alongside new developments. Today the city attracts many visitors to its festivals, markets, shopping, theatres and musical events. Celebrating Canterbury chronicles the proud heritage of Canterbury, its important moments and what draws so many to this histori
