Adeliza facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Adeliza |
|
|---|---|
| Died | c. 1113 |
| House | Normandy |
| Father | William the Conqueror |
| Mother | Matilda of Flanders |
Adeliza or Adelida was a daughter of William the Conqueror and his wife, Matilda of Flanders. She died sometime before the year 1113. We don't know for sure when she was born or when she died.
Adeliza was often listed as the first daughter among William the Conqueror's children. This makes historians think she was probably the oldest daughter. Her name was found on a special list called a "mortuary roll." This roll was made at her sister's religious house. Being on this list means she had passed away before the roll was finished in 1113.
About Her Life
Some old writings tell us about Adeliza. One historian, Orderic Vitalis, wrote that Harold Godwinson was engaged to "Adelidis." Harold was a powerful English earl who later became king. This engagement was said to have happened before the Battle of Hastings. After Harold died in that battle, Adeliza supposedly remained unmarried. Another writer, Robert of Torigni, also agreed with this idea.
However, Orderic Vitalis later changed his mind in his writings. He then said that Adeliza was "a young woman living under the care of Roger de Beaumont." This might mean she became a nun at a place called St Léger at Préaux. In his new account, Orderic said that a different sister, named Agatha, was the one engaged to Harold. Agatha was also said to be engaged to Alfonso VI of León and Castile, a king in Spain.
It is very likely that Adeliza was the "venerable lady of royal nobility" mentioned by Archbishop Anselm of Canterbury. He included her in his prayers and meditations.
