Minerva's shrine
by sandysmith
This shrine is unique in Western Europe, being the only one still 'in situ'. All the others have been taken to safety in museums. One could say that it was a pity this was not done in Chester. Having survived remarkably well for nearly two thousand years, it was badly vandalised several years ago. A copy and reconstruction are on view in Grosvenor Museum.
Minerva was the Roman goddess of wisdom, and this shrine, carved into the rock in a Roman quarry nearly 2000 years ago, is the only one of its kind in Britain preserved at its original site. Although the carving has weathered badly you can, with imagination, make out that the figure appears to be carrying a spear in her right hand and that an owl looks over her left shoulder. These objects are symbols of the goddess Minerva, hence the attribution of the shrine. The soldiers would pray to her and make offerings, in the hope that she would protect them from danger.
Location: Edgar's Field (lies by the Handbridge end of the Old Dee Bridge)
Coffee, cakes and wildlife
by gordonilla about Cafe Tsavo
After a fairly long day ( about 4 hours) walking around the Zoo, on a Friday afternoon in late January. It was time for a coffee and something else.
There was a real mix of people in the cafe and the menu was equally eclectic.
I can imagine that in the summer this place will be very busy and noisy. However, there was a low mumble of noise from the visitors during my visit.
High Cross
by sabsi
This sandstone pillar marked the centre of the Roman fortress. In Roman times Chester's main streets Via Principalis (now Watergate and Eastgate Streets), Via Decumana (now Northgate Street) and Via Praetoria (now Bridge Street) radiated from the cross to the main gates.
Roman amphi theatre
by bluesmama
From Newgate you can see the remains of a Roman amphitheatre built 100 AD. There's not that much to see actually but there are some plaques with information and right next to it are some gardens with lots of other Roman stuff that has been dug up around the city.
Messing about by the River
by Myfanwe
The fantastic riverside walk alongside the River Dee was opened in the 19th Century. Here you can stop for a snack and a drink at one of the cafe's, just sit and watch the World go by. Or if you're feeling more energetic there are a wide range of boats available for hire or you can take a boat trip up river to soak up your surroundings. Also, evey Sunday during the summer months you'll be able to catch a concert at the Edwardian Bandstand - a perfect way to while away the hours.
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Interior (1)
Chester Victorian Fair
Bear and Billet
Eastgate Arch
