Street Fotos

Today, while still renowned for its prestigious university and historic architecture – earning it the nickname "City of Dreaming Spires" – Oxford has a diverse economy encompassing education, publishing, science, and technology. It remains a vibrant city with a rich history evident in its buildings and traditions. Oxford's history stretches back to Saxon times, with the first written record appearing in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle in 912 AD, referring to it as "Oxenaforda," meaning "ford of the oxen." Its strategic location at the confluence of the Rivers Thames and Cherwell made it a significant point. Following the Norman Conquest, Oxford gained national importance, and Oxford Castle was built in 1071. The 12th century saw the establishment of the University of Oxford, which grew to dominate the town's character and economy, although not without "town and gown" conflicts, the most violent being the St. Scholastica Day Riot of 1355. During the medieval period, Oxford was also home to a notable Jewish community. The city's religious landscape was significantly altered by the English Reformation, with the dissolution of monasteries and the martyrdom of bishops Latimer and Ridley, and later Archbishop Cranmer, in the mid-16th century. Oxford played a crucial role in the English Civil War, serving as the Royalist headquarters under Charles I. It was granted city status in 1542 with the creation of the Diocese of Oxford. The 19th century brought industrial growth, with brewing, publishing (Oxford University Press being a major institution), and later, in the early 20th century, a boom in motor manufacturing. This led to significant population growth and immigration.