The town flourished commercially during the 13th century, mainly from the wool trade, and a number of friaries were founded.
There was particular growth during the 18th century, when more impressive properties and public buildings were constructed, now in brick.
There was little heavy industry in the town, but at the end of the 18th century Ditherington Flax Mill was built, the first fully iron-framed building in the world.
The most important early buildings, all listed at Grade I are Shrewsbury Castle, St Mary's Church, and the Old Market Hall.
The other listed buildings include remaining parts of the town walls, other churches, banks, a folly, former warehouses, the railway station, Shrewsbury Cathedral, a hospital, and a pillar box.