Introduction

Liverpool is a city and metropolitan borough in the North West of England. Liverpool is one of England's core cities, situated along the eastern side of the Mersey Estuary, with the city centre located about 5 miles inland from the Irish Sea. Liverpool has a varied topography being built across a ridge of hills rising up to a height of around 70 metres above sea-level at Everton Hill.

History

In 1190 the place was known as 'Liuerpul', meaning a pool or creek with muddy water. Other origins of the name have been suggested, including 'elverpool', a reference to the large number of eels in the Mersey. The origins of the city date back from August 1207 when patent letters were issued by King John advertising the establishment of a the new borough of Liverpool, and inviting settlers to come and take up holdings. In the 18th century, as trade from the West Indies grew on top of that from Ireland and Europe, Liverpool began to grow.

The first wet dock in Britain was built in Liverpool in 1715. Liverpool expanded significantly in the 19th century and a number of major buildings were constructed. In the 1960s Liverpool became a centre of youth culture. The city produced the distinctive Merseybeat sound, and, most famously, The Beatles. In recent years, the city has emphasised its cultural attractions, winning the accolade of European City of Culture for 2008.

Place of interest

The infrastructure of Liverpool contains over 2,500 listed buildings. It is the inheritance of high-minded public spirit since the later 18th century, largely with Dissenter impetus, that has resulted in more public sculptures created than in any UK city besides Westminster in London.

The Anglican Cathedral has the longest nave, largest organ and heaviest and highest peal of bells in the world.

Architects well represented in Liverpool: