Learnings: Ely, a Monastery for All

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The founder and Abbess of Ely was Queen Æthelthryth of Northumbria. She was also known as Etheldreda, Aurdey, or Edeldreda. She passed away in the year 679 and was buried in a simple wooden coffin. Years later, the coffin was opened so her remains could be moved to a new marble sarcophagus. According to the legend, those who peered into her grave met with a shock. For despite having been dead for years, Æthelthryth's body showed not a single sign of decay.

The incredible preservation of her body was seen as a miracle, and Æthelthryth was declared a saint. This illuminated manuscript highlights her sacred status through the use of gold. Gold, seen here in Saint Æthelthryth's robes, frame, and more, symbolized santity, importance, and direct communication to God.