Carantoc facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Saint Carantoc |
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Statue of St Carannog in Llangrannog
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| Abbot | |
| Born | possibly Cornwall |
| Died | 6th century |
| Venerated in | Catholic Church Eastern Orthodox Church |
| Feast | 16 May |
Saint Carantoc (also known as Carantock or Carannog) was a famous saint from the 6th century. He was an abbot, which is like a leader of a monastery. Carantoc lived in Wales and the West Country of England.
People believe he founded important churches. These include the church in Llangrannog, Ceredigion, Wales. He also founded St Carantoc's Church, Crantock in Cornwall. His name is even found among the list of Cornish Saints. What's really cool is that stories about Saint Carantoc sometimes mention the legendary King Arthur!
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Who Was Saint Carantoc?
Many details about Saint Carantoc's life are a bit unclear. This is because his stories were written a long time ago. He was born in Ceredigion, Wales. His grandfather was King Ceredig.
Carantoc was supposed to become king. But he didn't want to rule! So, he ran away to Llangrannog. There, he wanted to light a fire. As he shaved wood, a dove flew down. It carried away the wood shavings. The dove then landed in a special spot. Carantoc built a church right where the bird landed. This story shows how he was guided by faith.
Carantoc's Journeys
Saint Carantoc traveled a lot. He likely moved to Cornwall first. Then, he spent time preaching in Ireland. He visited places like Dulane and Inis-Baithen. Some stories also say he went to Brittany, a region in France. There's even a town there called Carantec, named after him!
It's not fully known where Carantoc died or was buried. Some say it was in Ireland. His special day, called a feast day, is celebrated on May 16th.
Saint Carantoc and King Arthur
One of the most exciting stories about Carantoc involves King Arthur. After his travels, Carantoc returned to Wales. He had lost his special portable altar. This was an important item for his religious work.
He crossed the Bristol Channel to look for it. He ended up near the River Willett in England. There, he met King Cado of Dumnonia and the famous King Arthur himself! This meeting happened near a place called Dunster in Somerset.
The Dragon Challenge
To get his altar back, Carantoc had to face a huge challenge. He had to defeat a fierce dragon! Imagine that! After he bravely defeated the dragon, he got his altar back.
In return for his bravery, Carantoc was given land. This land was in a nearby place called Carhampton. He used this land to build a monastery. This story shows Carantoc as a brave and powerful saint.
