Ælfthryth, Countess of Flanders facts for kids

Ælfthryth of Wessex (born around 877 – died June 7, 929) was an English princess. She was also known as Elftrudis or Elfrida. Ælfthryth became a countess when she married Baldwin II, a powerful ruler in a region called Flanders.

Who Was Ælfthryth?

Ælfthryth was the youngest daughter of Alfred the Great. He was a famous Saxon King of England. Her mother was Ealhswith. Ælfthryth had several brothers and sisters. These included King Edward the Elder and Æthelflæd, who was known as the "Lady of the Mercians."

Her Marriage to Baldwin II

Between the years 893 and 899, Ælfthryth married Baldwin II. He was the Count of Flanders, a region that is now part of modern-day Belgium and France. This marriage was important because it helped to create strong ties between the English royal family and powerful rulers in Europe. Baldwin II died in 918.

Ælfthryth's Children

Ælfthryth and Baldwin II had several children. Their children helped to continue their family's important role in European history.

• Arnulf I of Flanders (died 964 or 965); he later married Adela of Vermandois.
• Adalulf, who became the Count of Boulogne (died 933).
• Ealswid
• Ermentrud