For centuries, the City has been a meeting place for people to exchange ideas that go on to influence the world. Its spirit of innovation continues to grow and adapt.
As the birthplace of London, the City carries over 2,000 years of history — from the Romans through to the present day. It is the ancient heart from which the rest of London evolved. Its importance stems from its role as a hub of settlement, trade, business, and ceremony. Remarkably, the City of London still has its own government (the oldest in the country, predating Parliament), its own Lord Mayor, and even its own independent police force.
Scroll down to the timeline at the end of the page to explore some of the key milestones in the City’s remarkable history.
