Wigstan
- King of Mercia
- Sub-King and King of Hwicce
- Conflict with Beorhtwulf
- Sainthood and Cult
- Center of Pilgrimage
- Transfer of Relics
King of Mercia
Wigstan was the King of Mercia, a kingdom in Anglo-Saxon England. He ascended to the throne in 840, succeeding either his father, Wigmund, or his grandfather, Ceolwulf I.
Sub-King and King of Hwicce
Before becoming King of Mercia, Wigstan served as a sub-king or ealdorman of Hwicce. This role likely involved ruling over a sub-kingdom within Mercia.
Conflict with Beorhtwulf
During Wigstan's reign, a nobleman named Beorhtwulf sought to marry his son, Beorhtfrith, to Queen Alfleda, Wigstan's mother. Wigstan opposed this marriage, which led to a conflict with Beorhtwulf. In 840, Beorhtwulf had Wigstan killed and usurped the throne.
Sainthood and Cult
In 849, Wigstan's remains were reburied at Repton, where the relics of his grandfather, Wiglaf, were also interred. Over time, a cult of veneration developed around Wigstan, leading to his canonization by the Catholic Church. His feast day is June 1st.
Center of Pilgrimage
Repton became a center of pilgrimage as people sought to visit the site of Wigstan's death and burial. The cult of Saint Wigstan attracted pilgrims from far and wide.
Transfer of Relics
During the reign of King Cnut the Great in the 11th century, Wigstan's relics were transferred to Evesham Abbey. The abbey became the new center for the veneration of Saint Wigstan.
