Ironbridge Gorge

Ironbridge Gorge is a historical environment in Shropshire that was instrumental in igniting the 18th century Industrial Revolution and remains a potent icon of the time. It is generally recognized as the cradle of modern-day industry and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1986, spanning an area of approximately 5.5 square kilometers.

Ironbridge Gorge originated near the end of the Last Glacial Period, when thorough exposure of the rocks revealed economic amounts of coal, iron ore, limestone, and fireclay.

These resources contributed in the early phases of the Industrial Revolution's fast economic expansion, since they aided in the creation of iron, tiles, and porcelain, while the River Severn that flows through the valley provided for easy transit of products to the sea.

The gorge's settlements quickly grew into strong manufacturing centers, which is reflected in several of their names today: Coalbrookdale, Coalport, and Ironbridge.

Location: Ironbridge, UK