"I'll tell you, there are good men born at Monmouth..."King Henry V, Act IV Scene VII
The Romans liked South East Wales, and at Monmouth, you can see why. They came here in the 1st century AD (possibly seduced by the beauty of the Wye Valley) and formed the settlement Blestium, at the meeting of the rivers Wye, Monnow and Trothy. Few traces of them remain, but they left us with a mysterious earthwork in the Dixton area of the town.
The Normans were in residence until around 1250. Evidence of their occupation is visible in St Thomas's Church, Overmonnow, (above) where the church doorway is of great interest to historians.
King Henry V was later born at the Castle. But the landmark we are known best for is the fortified Monnow Bridge (right), built in the 13th century for town defences. It is the only one of its kind in the country.
Our Archaeological Society are therefore kept very busy in such a town steeped in history. You can visit the Nelson Museum for information on their latest discoveries. Admiral Nelson came here to gather wood for his ships, and the Honourable Charles Stewart Rolls, aviator and namesake to the Rolls-Royce company, is buried on the outskirts of the town, at The Hendre.
Today Monmouth is a busy border community. There have been many debates on whether Monmouth is actually English or Welsh, but both English and Welsh of all ages co-exist happily here.
Welsh may no longer be spoken here, but Monmouth has earned its place in 'The Land Of Song', as the town boasts two internationally respected recording studios - Freddie Mercury and Queen composed Bohemian Rhapsody here.
The highlight of the year is Monmouth Festival, where local and nationally known artists can take to the stage for a week of music and performance art.
Some might say that Monmouth is only really of interest to historians and archaeologists. I dispute that. Nothing beats a picnic at the riverside, or a few miles drive into the Forest Of Dean in the Autumn.
Artistic types will find inspiration here. Those more interested in social pursuits will find it hard to choose between the welcoming selection of pubs.
Monmouth is one of the safest places to bring up your children, and one of the best places to spend the twilight years of your life.
