ABSTRACT
This paper summarises the history of archaeological enquiry in Coventry together with the individuals who have been prominent in fieldwork. It charts the landmark excavations which have characterised fieldwork in the city, beginning with antiquarian investigations as early as 1815, but concentrating on modern research of the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, in order to provide a backdrop for the most recent enquiry. It introduces the principal sites towards which research continues to be directed, some of which will feature later in this volume.
