A new map charting the changes of Chester over the centuries has been published, with a launch event set for this month.

The detailed map explores the city's evolution from a Roman legionary fortress into the thriving cathedral city it is today.

Pieced together using extensive research compiled by historians Dr Tom Pickles and Professor Katherine Wilson, the map visualises how Chester's geography, trade, religion and civic life developed over two millennia.

Founded as the Roman legionary fortress of Deva and re-founded as an Anglo-Saxon fortified town (burh) in the 900s, Chester was the most important seaport and mercantile city of the North West.  

Testament to this are its surviving buildings, especially the unique Rows, stretching along the main four streets of the city.

The historical map of Chester charts these changes over time and tells the story of the people who shaped the city.

Using multi-period mapping, the project includes lost buildings, cemeteries, earthworks and sites of interest - as well as those that remain.  

Pieced together by The University of Chester and the Historic Towns Trust, 'An Historical Map of Chester: Mercantile Centre & Cathedral City' is a collaboration between professors at the university, history students, the public and external stakeholders in the city.   

The online launch event will take place on Monday 16 June from 6-7.30pm and is open to the public.

It will feature short informative talks, alongside Dr Tom Pickles and Prof Katherine Wilson sharing the map's research, how it was created and what it reveals of the city's past.

There will also be a Q&A session at the end of the event. Spaces are limited and booking is essential.

Katherine and Tom said: "We are delighted to bring this historic map of Chester to the public.  

"We hope that residents of Chester and the surrounding areas will be able to learn new insights about their important city, its fascinating past and the critical influences on its development - taking them on a journey from 400 to 1900." 

A spokesperson for Historic Towns Trust said: "Past and present are layered together in modern-day Chester: surviving buildings, ancient street-lines, historic placenames, and commemorations of past events and people are all visible.

"It will help both residents and visitors to grasp the city's unusually rich history and its impact on the vibrant present." 

An Historical Map of Chester: Mercantile Centre & Cathedral City is available to buy now.