Cyneburh

Cyneburh, also known as Cyneburg, was a medieval English saint and abbess. She was born in the 7th century in Kent, England, and is believed to have been the daughter of King Ethelbert of Kent. Cyneburh is primarily known for her role as the abbess of the monastery of St. Peter and St. Paul in Rochester, Kent, which she founded in 670 AD. The monastery was dedicated to the apostles Peter and Paul and became a significant center of learning and religious life in the region.

Cyneburh's life is documented in the "Life of Cyneburh," a 10th-century biography written by a monk named Æthelweard. According to this account, Cyneburh was known for her piety, wisdom, and charitable works. She is said to have established a school at the monastery where she taught the scriptures and other subjects to both men and women. The school became renowned for its educational standards and attracted students from across the kingdom.

Cyneburh's monastery was also a place of refuge for the poor and needy. She is credited with founding a hospital within the monastery to care for the sick and elderly. The monastery's library was also well-regarded, containing many valuable manuscripts and religious texts.

Cyneburh died in 680 AD and was buried in the monastery she founded. Her feast day is celebrated on February 14th. She is venerated as a saint in the Church of England and is remembered for her contributions to education, charity, and religious life. Her legacy continues to be honored through the work of the monastery and the educational institutions that bear her name.