Winchester ~ Alfred the Great. (Elfred)

King Alfred ruled Wessex from 871 until his death in 899. At the time of his enthronement the Vikings had taken control and were threatening Wessex. Alfred developed a sophisticated military strategy involving the establishment of fortified centres. His capital at Winchester was the largest. He gradually won back some of the lands taken by the Vikings and his diplomacy led eventually to the formation of the English nation. His remarkable combination of soldier, statesman and scholar earned him the title 'the Great' - an honour bestowed on no other English king.