ABSTRACT
First, a new definition is presented of the geographical extent of the pre-Dissolution cathedral and monastic precinct of St Mary’s Cathedral Priory, Coventry. Following the Dissolution, the demolition of the majority of the precinct buildings created a large area of derelict land within the town. Using a wide variety of documentary and cartographic sources, this paper chronicles how the rubble fields eventually came to be reclaimed and developed. By the mid-17th century socially distinct areas of housing had emerged. Continuity of industrial use characterised the north end of the precinct in the area of the medieval water mill and dye house. The 20th century witnessed the greatest changes when Coventry rapidly grew into a major industrial city. At the end of the century the Millennium celebrations gave the opportunity to reveal the site of the lost cathedral and priory. The Phoenix Initiative was the first time that comprehensive redevelopment in the city centre included as a first principle the laying out, display and interpretation of archaeological remains over an extensive area.
