Offa of Essex facts for kids
Offa was a king of the Kingdom of Essex, an Anglo-Saxon kingdom in what is now England. Historians believe he ruled for several years, possibly from around 694 to 709 AD. He might have ruled alongside another king named Swæfred.
Offa was the son of Sighere, who had been king before him. In 709 AD, Offa decided to leave his kingdom. He went on a special journey, called a pilgrimage, to Rome. There, he became a monk and sadly passed away. Another king, Cenred of Mercia, also joined him on this journey and became a monk.
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A King's Journey to Faith
The famous historian Bede wrote about King Offa. Bede described Offa as a "youth of most lovely age and beauty." He said that everyone in his kingdom really wanted him to be their king.
Why Offa Left His Kingdom
Despite being a popular king, Offa chose a different path. Bede wrote that Offa "quit his wife, lands, kindred and country." He did this for his Christian faith and the teachings of the Gospel.
Becoming a Monk in Rome
Offa wanted to find a deeper spiritual life. He traveled to the holy city of Rome. There, he received the "tonsure," which means his hair was cut in a special way for monks. He chose to live as a monk. Bede believed that by doing this, Offa found the peace he was looking for.
Offa's Royal Documents
Kings in Offa's time often issued official documents called charters. These charters were like legal papers. They were used to grant land or confirm agreements.
Land Grants by King Offa
One charter (known as S64) mentions Offa giving land in an area called Warwickshire. However, this charter strangely calls him "King of Mercia" instead of Essex. Historians think this might be a mistake. It could be a copy of a real charter made by King Cenred of Mercia.
Another charter (S 1784) seems more reliable. This document is dated between 704 and 709 AD. In it, King Offa grants land in Hemel Hempstead to Waldhere, who was the bishop of London at that time. This shows Offa's power and his connection with important church leaders.
Who Ruled After Offa?
After King Offa left his kingdom to become a monk, Saelred of Essex became the new King of Essex.
