Lichfield etymology

Etymology and Meaning of Lichfield:

The name "Lichfield" is derived from Old English and has two possible etymologies:

  1. "Lech Field" or "Hillock Field":

    • "Lech" or "hleh" means "hillock" or "slight elevation."
    • "Field" refers to open land.

    This etymology suggests that Lichfield was originally a settlement built on a gentle hill or hillock.

  2. "Corpse Field":

    • "Lich" or "lic" means "corpse" or "dead body."
    • "Field" refers to open land.

    This etymology is based on the legend that Lichfield was the burial site of St. Chad, the patron saint of the city. According to the legend, St. Chad's body was found in a field and a church was built on the spot.

Origin and History:

Lichfield was founded as a religious center in the 7th century by St. Chad, who was appointed Bishop of the Mercians. He established a monastery and cathedral on the site of an earlier pagan temple.

The name "Lichfield" was first recorded in a charter from King Offa of Mercia in 799 AD as "Licetfelda," meaning "Lech field." Over time, the name evolved to its current form.

Lichfield became a thriving city and an important ecclesiastical center in the Middle Ages. It was the seat of the Diocese of Lichfield and the site of the famous Lichfield Cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century.

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