Burgheard, son of Ælfgar facts for kids

Burgheard was a young man who lived a long time ago, in the 11th century. He died in the year 1061. Burgheard was the son of a very important person named Ælfgar, who was the Earl of Mercia. An Earl was like a powerful leader or governor of a region in England back then.

Burgheard had several famous family members. His brothers, Edwin and Morcar, also became Earls after their father. Edwin became Earl of Mercia, and Morcar became Earl of Northumbria. This was during the time of kings like Edward the Confessor and William I. Burgheard also had a sister named Edith, who later married King Harold Godwinson. His grandparents were the famous Lady Godiva and Leofric, who was also an Earl of Mercia.

A Mysterious Journey to Rome

We don't know much about Burgheard's life, but one important event stands out. In the spring of 1061, he died shortly after returning from a trip to Rome. Rome was a very important city, especially for religious reasons, even back then.

Where Was Burgheard Buried?

After he died, Burgheard was buried in a special place called the abbey of Saint-Rémi in Reims, a city in what is now France.

A Special Gift for the Abbey

To honor Burgheard and his burial place, his parents gave a wonderful gift to the abbey. They gave them some land in Staffordshire and Shropshire in England. This land later helped to support a religious house called Lapley Priory. They also gave the abbey a beautifully decorated gospel book. This was a very rare gift, as it's the only known example of English people giving such a gift to a French monastery during that time.

Why Did Burgheard Go to Rome?

The exact reason for Burgheard's journey to Rome isn't known for sure. However, historians believe he might have been one of many English people who traveled to Rome in 1061. It's thought that Burgheard might have gone with Wulfwig, who was the bishop of Dorchester.

The trip was likely very important for Burgheard's family and their power. It might have had something to do with a church called Stow Minster in Lindsey. At this time, Burgheard's family (the Earls of Mercia) were trying to keep their power strong against another powerful family, the House of Godwin. So, Burgheard's trip to Rome was probably part of these important political plans.