Roger de Bailleul
Canterbury (elected, declined)·Lombardy·Benedictine monk, Abbey of Our Lady of Bec
Roger de Bailleul was a medieval Benedictine monk who served as the abbot of Bec. He was also briefly the archbishop-elect of Canterbury but declined the position. Roger was known for his legal scholarship and for undertaking significant renovations at Bec Abbey.
Key Facts
- ›Born in Lombardy, his exact birthplace is uncertain.
- ›Became a monk at the Abbey of our Lady of Bec and taught CIVIL and canon law.
- ›Elected the seventh abbot of Bec on July 6, 1149.
- ›Undertook renovations of the abbey church, hospital, and dormitory at Bec.
- ›Elected archbishop of Canterbury in February 1173 but declined the role.
- ›Died at Bec Abbey on September 25, 1179.
Renovation of Bec Abbey Church, Construction of A Hospital At Bec Abbey, Renovation of the Dormitory At Bec Abbey, Dug Canals For Water Supply At Bec Abbey
About Roger de Bailleul
Roger de Bailleul was a prominent medieval Benedictine monk, serving as the abbot of the Abbey of Our Lady of Bec in Normandy and briefly as the archbishop-elect of Canterbury. His life and career spanned the mid-12th century, a period of significant political and religious activity in England and France.
Life and Historical Context
Born in Lombardy, Roger de Bailleul's exact origins have been a subject of some historical discussion, though Robert du Mont confirms his Lombardian roots. He became a monk at the esteemed Abbey of Bec, where he developed a reputation as a skilled jurist, teaching civil and canon law in England. His political leanings, as a supporter of Empress Matilda in her dispute with Stephen of Blois over the English throne, led to royal opposition and his temporary return to the abbey in Normandy. Following the death of Abbot Létard, Roger was elected the seventh abbot of Bec on July 6, 1149.
Major Contributions as Abbot of Bec
During his tenure as abbot, Roger de Bailleul undertook substantial improvements at Bec Abbey. He initiated the renovation of the abbey church, with the first stone laid in 1161 and its consecration celebrated in 1178 in the presence of King Henry II of England. Beyond the church, he was responsible for building a hospital, which included accommodation for travellers, renovating the dormitory, and implementing a system of canals to bring water to the monastic apartments.
Decline of Canterbury Election and Death
In February 1173, Roger de Bailleul was elected to succeed as archbishop of Canterbury by the monks of Christ Church, Canterbury. However, he declined this significant ecclesiastical office and was formally absolved from the election on April 5, 1173. Roger de Bailleul died at Bec Abbey on September 25, 1179.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Roger de Bailleul born?
Roger de Bailleul was born in Lombardy. While the Gallia Christiana suggests he was a native of Bailleul, which specific Bailleul is not identified, Robert du Mont confirms Lombardy as his origin.
What was Roger de Bailleul's role at the Abbey of Bec?
Roger de Bailleul became a monk at the Abbey of Our Lady of Bec and was elected its seventh abbot on July 6, 1149. As abbot, he initiated significant renovations to the abbey church and other facilities.
Did Roger de Bailleul become Archbishop of Canterbury?
Roger de Bailleul was elected archbishop of Canterbury by the monks of Christ Church, Canterbury, in February 1173. However, he declined the election and was formally absolved from it on April 5, 1173.
What were some of Roger de Bailleul's notable achievements?
As abbot of Bec, Roger de Bailleul oversaw the renovation of the abbey church, the construction of a hospital, the renovation of the dormitory, and the digging of canals for water supply.
When did Roger de Bailleul die?
Roger de Bailleul died at Bec Abbey on September 25, 1179.
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