Cities

[c3111068]

Is it true that for a place to be recognised as a City, it has to have either a University or a Cathedral?

If this isnt the case, how does a place become a City, what are the things needed for them to qualify?

[oohbadknee]

i don't know the answer, but as an example, Middlesbrough has both a Cathedral and a University, but isn't a city.

[Sludge]

The following questions and answers might be of help;

How does a town qualify for city status?

Towns interested in the honour are invited to apply for city status. City status is not a right that can be claimed by a town fulfilling certain criteria. Each application is considered on its individual merits.

Why are there no criteria?

The use of specific criteria could lead to a town claiming city status as of right, which in turn might devalue the honour.

Must a city have a cathedral?

No.

What guidance has been given to potential applicants?

Towns interested in applying for city status are told that the following main factors will be taken into account:

notable features, including significance regionally; significance within England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, and/or significance within the United Kingdom as a whole;

historical (including Royal) considerations; and

a forward-looking attitude.

In conclusion, while some suggestions are given above to towns of the types of factors that might be mentioned under these three broad headings, it is emphasised that applicants must decide for themselves how best to demonstrate that they have these qualities, and that applications are considered "in the round", to get a balanced view of each town's qualities. No details are given of the reasons for a towns' success, or lack of success.

[bernardo]

A City needs a Royal Charter

[Famous5]

But what defines a city in a republic? For example many tiny places in the USA enjoy the title city and they wouldn't even be considered villages in the UK