These side-by-side images of iconic Liverpool streets and landmarks through history show just how much the city has evolved over the years.
Liverpool is a city that is forever evolving. From the original seven streets laid out by King John in 1207 it developed into one of the most important merchant ports in the world.
In 2008, Liverpool was named European Capital of Culture and a new wave of rejuvenation washed over the city. Empty dockland warehouses were converted into sought-after waterfront apartments and Liverpool ONE brought a freshness to the shopping district.
And there are more grand plans afoot, with the city set to get its own New York-style Central Park as part of a project that will see over 2,300 homes built in the central docks near Everton’s new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock.
The city has seen enormous change over the last century and it continues apace. These images help us look back at an era when the city seemed unrecognisable and compare it, side by side, to what it has become.
Opened in 1911, as the home of the Royal Liver Assurance group, the Grade I-listed Royal Liver Building has become Liverpool’s most iconic landmark. At 7.6 metres in diameter the clock faces on the famous waterfront building are bigger than those on the Elizabeth Tower in London that houses the famous Big Ben bell. Clockmakers Gent & Co of Leicester used them as massive dining tables for 40 dignitaries before the grand opening of their Liver Bird timepieces. Photo: Fox Photos/Getty Images & Adam/stock.adobe
6. Liverpool Parish Church of Our Lady and Saint Nicholas, Chapel Street
Chapel Street is one of Liverpool’s original seven roads and Liverpool Parish Church of Our Lady and Saint Nicholas stands at the foot of it. In 1362 the population of Liverpool had grown to about 1,000 and a large chapel was constructed - the forerunner of the current building. The Remains of the medieval church can still be seen in the foundations of the 19th century tower. The grounds of the church now hosts the ever-changing art installations on The Liverpool Plinth and, of course, the annual Liverpool Pancake Race. Photo: Hulton Archive/Getty Images & David Bond/Wirestock Creators/stock.adobe
7. Church Street
The street takes its name from St Peter’s Church, which was demolished in 1922. Once lined with horse and carriages and trams, it is now pedestrianised as one of the main shopping streets in the city. It is home to the likes of Primark and TK Maxx. Photo: London Stereoscopic Company/Hulton Archive/Getty Images & Google Street View
8. Silted up Albert Dock in 1982 and present day
Built from cast iron, brick and stone in 1846, the Albert Dock was the first non-combustible warehouse system in the world. It served as a key port until after WWII and then fell into disrepair. It is pictured above silted up before its proposed demolition in 1982. However, the dock was saved and turned into one of the most popular destinations in Liverpool, offering everything from art to nights out. It was granted a royal charter in 2018 and had ‘Royal’ added to its name. Photo: TeddyBear1963/wikimedia and vichie81/stock.adobe
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