Coventry, a center of the British textiles trade ever since the Middle Ages, also has a long tradition in the motor and aeronautical industries, for which reason it was targeted by the German Luftwaffe early in the Second World War. A massive bombing raid in 1940 left the city center almost completely
destroyed. Of the old Cathedral nothing but a few fragments remained. They are now incorporated into the new Cathedral built after the war, an acknowledged masterpiece of modern architecture. The rebuilding of the city itself, with fine open squares, wide streets and pedestrian zones, is an excellent example of contemporary town planning.
Coventry grew up in the 11th century under the protection of a monastic house founded by Leofric, Earl of Mercia. Tradition has it that the Earl's wife, Lady Godiva, interceded with her hard hearted husband on behalf of the people of Coventry, for relief from the heavy taxes he imposed. He in turn agreed to lighten his demands, if she rode naked through the streets of the town. This she did, the grateful citizens steadfastly refusing to peer from their windows, with the single exception of "Peeping Tom" who later recounted the story. By the 14th century Coventry's woolen industry had already established a reputation for its trade fairs; soon it prospered further, developing into a major textile center. In the 17th century however, the economy began to decline, a process which continued until engineering, in the shape of sewing machine, bicycle and motor manufacture, brought about a revival of its fortunes in the mid 19th century.
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