Teneu facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Saint Teneu
Traprain Law: the cliff from which Teneu was thrown
Born	Traprain Law, Lothian (alleged)
Died	6th or 7th century
Venerated in	Eastern Orthodox Church; Roman Catholic Church; Anglican Communion
Canonized	Pre-Congregation
Feast	18 July
Patronage	Glasgow, Scotland

Saint Teneu (also known as Thenew, Tannoch, or Thaney) is a famous legendary Christian saint from Scotland. She lived around the 6th century. Teneu is known as the mother of Saint Mungo, who helped found the city of Glasgow.

Both Teneu and her son, Saint Mungo, are considered the special protectors, or patron saints, of Glasgow. A place in Glasgow called St Enoch Square is believed to be where a chapel was built for her long ago. The name "St. Enoch" actually comes from "St. Teneu." People remember her every year on July 18th.

What's in a Name?

Saint Teneu has been called by many different names throughout history. In the first written story about her son, her name was Thaney. Later, in a book called Vita Kentigerni (which means "Life of Saint Mungo"), her name was written as Taneu.

Other old books and records have used names like Thenewe, Thennow, and Denyw. Sometimes, her name even appeared as Thametes or Thameta. All these names refer to the same important saint.

The Legend of Saint Teneu

The story of Saint Teneu is quite dramatic. Her father, a king, was very angry when he found out she was going to have a baby with a Welsh prince named Owain mab Urien. He felt she had brought shame to the family.

Because of this, her father ordered her to be thrown from a high cliff called Traprain Law. But something amazing happened: she survived the fall! It was a miracle.

After surviving, Teneu was placed in a small boat called a coracle and set adrift on the water. She floated across the Firth of Forth until she reached a place called Culross. There, she found help and shelter with a holy man named Saint Serf.

In Culross, Teneu gave birth to her son. Saint Serf gave the baby the nickname Mungo, which means "very dear one." This child grew up to be the famous Saint Mungo.

Stories and Books About Teneu

Saint Teneu's story has inspired writers in modern times. She is a character in a historical novel called Bride of the Spear by Kathleen Herbert. In this book, she is called Taniu.

She also appears as Thanea in Nigel Tranter's historical novel Druid Sacrifice. These books help keep her ancient legend alive for new readers.

See also

• Wish tree