Caer Bladon

Malmesbury - History

The term ‘Caer Bladon’ translates to mean ‘fortified place (or ‘stronghold’) on the Bladon’, with ‘Bladon’ referring to what we now recognise as the River Avon. Use of this early term suggests, and archaeological digs have since proven, that the site has been continuously inhabited since the Iron Age.

There is a lack of evidence of Roman settlement in the town, but the town’s proximity to the Roman Fosseway (to the North-West) implies that there was probably some settlement in the area at the time. Furthermore, Roman pottery and silver Constantine coins have been found within Malmesbury in recent times, making it all the more likely that Roman era settlers inhabited the area.

Sources:-

Bowen, John. (Edited By Allnatt, Graham), A Story of Malmesbury (Hackman Print, Rhondda: 2000).

Hodge, Dr. Bernulf., A History of Malmesbury (5^th Edition; Friends of Malmesbury Abbey, Minety: 1990).

Image: http://www.athelstanmuseum.org.uk/malmesbury_governance.html