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Wolverhampton takes its
name from a monastry established by Lady Wulfruna in 985 AD
and means 'the high town or town on the hill'.
By the 13th century the settlement
had become a thriving market town and was famous for its part
in the woollen trade.
From the 16th century onwards
Wolverhampton became a centre for metal industries including
iron and brass founding and and lock and key making.
In the 19th century the heavily
industrialised south-eastern part of the town became part
of the soot-covered 'Black Country'. However, the industry
also brough great prosperity to the town.
This is reflected in splendid
Victorian houses including Wightwick
Manor, the Mount and Tettenhall Towers.
In 2000 Wolverhampton was created
one of the three new Millenium Cities and is ranked the 13th
largest city England. Wolverhampton is often shortened
to 'Wolves', as in the case of its famous football club.
The city is a popular shopping
centre and recent refurbishment has created smart arcades
converging on attractive planted central areas with fountains.
Other visitor attractions to
see include the renowned Wolverhampton
Art Gallery and the Bliston Craft Gallery and Museum.
There are also some delightful
parks and historic houses such as Bantock House, featuring
an Arts and Crafts interior and Moseley
Old Hall, at Fordhouses, where Charles II sort refuge
after his defeat in the Battle of Worcester in 1651.
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Wolverhampton
