Æðelþryðs

Æðelþryð, also known as Etheldreda, was an Anglo-Saxon saint and queen. She was born in the 7th century, likely around 630 AD, to King Anna of East Anglia. Her life was marked by piety and a commitment to religious principles, influencing her decisions regarding marriage and her eventual founding of a monastery.

She was married twice. Her first marriage was to Tondberht, a nobleman of the Gyrwas people. After his death, she married Ecgberht, a king of Kent. Dissatisfied with secular life and seeking a deeper spiritual commitment, Æðelþryð eventually persuaded Ecgberht to allow her to live a monastic life. This separation was granted, and she took vows as a nun.

Following her monastic consecration, Æðelþryð founded the monastery at Ely in Cambridgeshire. This religious community became a significant center of learning and worship. She served as its abbess, dedicating her life to prayer, service, and the administration of the monastic institution.

Æðelþryð is venerated as a saint in both the Roman Catholic and Anglican traditions. Her feast day is traditionally celebrated on June 23rd. Legends surrounding her life often highlight her miracles and her steadfast devotion to God, solidifying her reputation as a holy figure in early English history. The monastery she founded at Ely would later develop into Ely Cathedral.