By combining the results of archaeological excavation carried out over the last thirty years with important discoveries in previous centuries, Alison Taylor is able to piece together the history of Cambridge through prehistoric, Roman, Anglo-Saxon and medieval times, and then the expansion of the university in later centuries. Her book is full of surprises - especially for those whose knowledge of Cambridge is confined to the colleges. For it is in college courtyards and lawns that recent excavations tell the story of the medieval town. Although the question of why the university existed at all is tackled and the creation of the individual colleges is explained, it is the changing fortunes of the town itself which are the real subject of this refreshingly original book.

About the Author
Alison Taylor is a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries, Member of the Institute of Field Archaeologists and editor of the Proceedings of Cambridge Antiquarian Society. She was County Archaeologist for Cambridgeshire for 21 years, and now works for the Institute of Field Archaeologists, editing The Archaeologist and other publications.

Reviews
A clear and fluently written narrative.
A successful synthesis of archaeology and history to produce a fresh account of a much-studied town.



Book Information
ISBN 9780752419145
Author Alison Taylor
Format Paperback
Imprint The History Press Ltd
Publisher The History Press Ltd
Weight(grams) 450g
Dimensions(mm) 248mm * 172mm * 10mm