Aldhun of Durham

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Aldhun of Durham (died 1018) was the last Bishop of Lindisfarne and the first Bishop of Durham.

Since the late 9th century the See of Lindisfarne was based in Chester-le-Street because of constant attacks from invading Danes. However in 994 the King of England had paid a Danegeld (protection money) to the King of Denmark and the King of Norway in return for peace. The pay-off worked and there followed a period of freedom from Viking raids. This encouraged Aldhun to return the remains of Saint Cuthbert to their original resting place at Lindisfarne, and to reinstate the See there.

En route to their destination however Aldhun claimed to have received a vision from Saint Cuthbert saying that the saint's remains should be laid to rest at Durham. The monks detoured then to Durham, and the title Bishop of Lindisfarne was transferred to Bishop of Durham.

Religious Posts
Preceded by
Elfdig
Bishop of Lindisfarne
990 - 995
Succeeded by
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Preceded by
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Bishop of Durham
995 - 1018
Succeeded by
Eadmund