Æthelbert

Æthelbert is an Anglo-⁠Saxon martyr, killed between 640 and 670 together with his brother Æthelred. He is venerated in the Western Church and commemorated on 17 October, in the Gregorian calendar.

The two brothers were the children of Eormenred and great-⁠grandsons of Saint Æthelberht of Kent. They were treacherously killed by a certain Thunor, chancellor of King Ecgberht of Kent, at Eastry near Sandwich. The cause of the killing was said to be the fear of the king, newly enthroned, of their claims to the crown. King Ecgberht, realizing his responsibility, founded the monastery of Minster in repentance, with his sister, Saint Eormenburh, as first abbess. The Venerable Bede does not mention these saints. The brothers' relics were moved to Wakering in Essex, and Saint Oswald then carried them to the monastery of Ramsey, where they are especially honored. They are also honored at Canterbury, as brothers of royal blood, sometimes shown with swords.

The story comes from late traditions, and the year of death remains uncertain.