Isca Dumnoniorum settlement there (modern Caerleon) to be distinguished as "Isca Augusta", while the Devonian Isca was called "Isca Dumnoniorum": Usk of the Dumnonians. Exeter began as settlements on a dry ridge ending in a spur overlooking a navigable river teeming with fish, with fertile land nearby. Although there have been no major prehistoric finds, these advantages suggest the site was occupied early. Coins had been discovered from the Hellenistic kingdoms, suggesting the existence of a settlement trading with the Mediterranean as early as . This is disputed however by Prof T P Wiseman who alleges the hoard was not genuine. Following
Isca sullo Ionio view of the sea. The high open view of the sea offered protection for the people, giving them time to prepare for a possible attack. The mountains that surround Isca on three sides, also made it difficult for outsiders to enter Isca from anywhere except from the shoreline. With a warm summer climate, the area is known for growing lemons, oranges, figs, chestnuts, grapes and beans. In the immediate days following the earthquake of 1947, talks began and planning of a new community or extension to Isca, that should be built on safer flat ground, near the beach. The name