Durham, United Kingdom
Posted On Monday, July 23, 2007 at at 11:45 PM by SA
University of Durham
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Abstract: Durham (pronounced as "daaram") is a small city located south of Newcastle and about 30 minutes or 32km by car. Apart from it being well remembered in my life, it is well-known for its Norman Cathedral and Castle, and is home to Durham University. The name "Durham" comes from Old English "dun-holm", meaning "hill-island". It was given this name due to its steep, hilly embankments. Therefore it was a perfect place for the castle defences. The present Durham Cathedral was built from 1093, and still contains the remains of St Cuthbert as well as The Venerable Bede. It is regarded by many - such as travel writer Bill Bryson -- as the finest cathedral in the world.
Facing the cathedral across Palace Green is Durham Castle, originally built by the Normans from 1071, on William the Conqueror's return from campaigning in Scotland. Some of the present structure is more recent, notably Anthony Salvin's Victorian restorations. The two buildings are jointly designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site- one of the original seven in the United Kingdom. The University of Durham was founded in 1832 , which has several buildings on the peninsula and on Elvet Hill on the other side of the river.
Most of the interesting places are all centered in the castle area itself and easily reachable by foot. For example Durham Market Place, Market Square, the River Wear. The River Wear flows north through the city, enclosing the centre on three sides to create Durham's "peninsula". Durham is a hilly city, claiming to be built upon the symbolic seven hills. Upon the most central and prominent position high above the Wear, the cathedral dominates the skyline.
Facing the cathedral across Palace Green is Durham Castle, originally built by the Normans from 1071, on William the Conqueror's return from campaigning in Scotland. Some of the present structure is more recent, notably Anthony Salvin's Victorian restorations. The two buildings are jointly designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site- one of the original seven in the United Kingdom. The University of Durham was founded in 1832 , which has several buildings on the peninsula and on Elvet Hill on the other side of the river.
Most of the interesting places are all centered in the castle area itself and easily reachable by foot. For example Durham Market Place, Market Square, the River Wear. The River Wear flows north through the city, enclosing the centre on three sides to create Durham's "peninsula". Durham is a hilly city, claiming to be built upon the symbolic seven hills. Upon the most central and prominent position high above the Wear, the cathedral dominates the skyline.
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