King of Wessex. Born the son of King Cynegils, one of the early converts to Christianity in the kingdom. He married either a daughter or sister of the Mercian king, Penda. After his accession, he repudiated his wife who retaliated by instigating a war between Mercia and Wessex. Cenwalh was driven into exile in East Anglia where he eventually converted to his host's faith and accepted baptism in the Christian church. After an exile of about three years in East Anglia, he regained his throne. He then commissioned the building of St. Peter's at Winchester. Throughout much of the remainder of his reign, he fought incursions of the Welsh and the Mercians, eventually losing the Isle of Wight, southern Hampshire, and all his lands north of the Thames. He died between 672 and 674, tradition has it that his second wife, Seaxburh, held power for a year after his death.
King of Wessex. Born the son of King Cynegils, one of the early converts to Christianity in the kingdom. He married either a daughter or sister of the Mercian king, Penda. After his accession, he repudiated his wife who retaliated by instigating a war between Mercia and Wessex. Cenwalh was driven into exile in East Anglia where he eventually converted to his host's faith and accepted baptism in the Christian church. After an exile of about three years in East Anglia, he regained his throne. He then commissioned the building of St. Peter's at Winchester. Throughout much of the remainder of his reign, he fought incursions of the Welsh and the Mercians, eventually losing the Isle of Wight, southern Hampshire, and all his lands north of the Thames. He died between 672 and 674, tradition has it that his second wife, Seaxburh, held power for a year after his death.
Bio by: Iola
Gravesite Details
Originally burial in Old Minster which was immediately north of and partially beneath its successor, Winchester Cathedral. Bones later transferred to Winchester Cathedral, Winchester.
Family Members
Parents
Advertisement
See more of Wessex memorials in:
Advertisement
