Introduction

Before becoming the bustling metropolis we know today, London was once Lundenwic, a thriving Anglo-Saxon trading settlement. Between the 5th and 9th centuries, it emerged as an important commercial hub before later being fortified by Alfred the Great.

The Development of Lundenwic

After the Romans abandoned Londinium, Anglo-Saxon settlers established Lundenwic near the present-day Strand. The town flourished as a center for trade and craftsmanship, connecting England to Europe.

Key Anglo-Saxon Sites in London

• Lundenwic Excavations – Archaeological finds in Covent Garden reveal evidence of Anglo-Saxon streets, markets, and workshops.
• Westminster Abbey’s Anglo-Saxon Origins – Founded in the early medieval period, it played a crucial role in royal ceremonies.
• The Alfredian Refortification of London – King Alfred the Great reclaimed and rebuilt the city after Viking invasions, reshaping its layout.

Conclusion

Lundenwic’s Anglo-Saxon legacy remains an integral part of London’s medieval history, making it a key destination for those exploring early medieval England.