History of Cardiff starts from the Neolithic period. Garth Hill located near Pentyrch village is home to a vast range of objects from this era. Pottery, dress materials from animal skin, hunting equipment, parts of Neolithic buildings, and other remnants tell you about the lifestyle, foods, houses, and community life of people. The prehistoric sites in and around Cardiff have preserved many burial grounds of this era. They represent the faith and traditions of the people.
The next known historical timeline of Cardiff starts from the Roman era, moves through the time of the Vikings, Normans, Union of Wales, and the modern era from the 19th century. The industrial age of Cardiff was primarily influenced by John Crichton-Stuart, a famous industrialist who revolutionised the processes related to manufacturing, processing, smelting, forging, and other forms of production.
History of Cardiff- Silures
Cardiff Roman Fort represents the entire history of the city during this era. It starts from the period of Silures. They were the people with dark skin complexion and curly hair. The other native community in this region had the massive body and red hair. Historians often call the as the Gauls who were mainly from parts of Spain. Geological excavations in and around Cardiff have disclosed the remnants of round style houses built by the Silures during the Iron-age. Celtic was the most prominently spoken language during this era. The meaning of Silures is stated to be the people who owned rich stocks of food grains. It indicates the advanced state of agriculture in Cardiff. This era seemed to have come to a near end with the invasion of the Romans in 48AD.
History of Cardiff – Romans
Romans invaded Cardiff in 48AD. Ostorius was the Roman invader who led a large army with sophisticated weapons and armoury. The invasion might have started from the North East of Wales and entered the city of Cardiff. Silures staged a Gorilla-war against the invading Romans and held them for many years at bay before being defeated by the large numbers of the invading army. By 78 AD the Romans had conquered almost all the parts of Cardiff.
The Roman era witnessed many changes in architecture, jewellery, clothing and fabrics, furniture, metal works, etc. The Romans brought gold, silver, and many forms of metal alloys with them. They also introduced cotton, wool and other unknown types of fabrics to Cardiff people before.
History of Cardiff – Vikings and Normans
The Vikings era starting from 850AD invasion extended till 1091. The Normans took over the administration of Cardiff from this time to 1536 when Wales joined England Union. Within this period Cardiff experienced considerable progress in the fields of agriculture, jewellery making, metal works, animal farming, mining, pottery, and household metal items making and related fields.
History of Cardiff – Post Normans
The Post Norman era witnessed the growth of commercial shipping. Harbours, shipbuilding yards, trading routes, and large roads represent the significant increase in Trading and commerce along with fast advancements in production and agriculture. Continuation of these developments till the scientific and industrial era is responsible for the creation of today’s modern industrial Cardiff.