Taken in May 2003 in London's Covent Garden. Tourist and natives alike enjoy the shopping, entertainment and eating opportunities and there's always quite a buzz.
The site has a rich history dating back to Saxon and Roman times when it formed part of a trading area. Abandoned in the 9th century it reverted back to an agricultural area until the 17th century when it was developed into the first public square in the country. The beautiful, classical architecture had a definite influence on London's subsequent development and the organised street plans were an early example of urban street planning. The nature of the area and it's inhabitants changed following the development of new suburbs such as Bloomsbury, which lead to an exodus of the rich and an influx of artists. When the Great Fire of London (1666) destroyed many of the city's markets Covent Garden became a stronger focus for market traders. Eventually the area was dominated by the market and the main market building was erected in the 1830s. The imposing glass roof was added in the 1870s as were additional market buildings. The surrounding streets could not cope with late 20th century congestion and the fruit and flower market were moved to new premises in 1973. A vociferous campaign succeeded in persuading local authorities not to knock down the historic building and today it forms the centre of a bustling trade area once again.
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