c. 1056 – 30 July 1126
House: Normandy
Titles: Abbess of the Holy Trinity
Cecilia of Normandy, sometimes known as Cecily, was believed to be the eldest daughter of William the Conqueror and Matilda of Flanders. She was the sister of William II and Henry I of England, and maintained a close relationship with her brother, Robert Curthose. Educated by the scholar Arnulf of Chocques, Cecilia received a comprehensive education in the arts, Latin, rhetoric, and logic.
She was entered into the Abbey of the Holy Trinity of Caen at a young age, where she was placed during the convent’s formal inauguration in June 1066. Throughout her time at the convent, she was granted privileges uncommon for most noblewomen, including her own household and confessor. She became the coadjutor of the abbess, Matilda, and later succeeded her as Abbess in 1112. Cecilia was known for her successful career at the convent and for the improvements she introduced there.
Death: Cecilia died on 30 July 1126 in Caen, France at the age of approximately 69 or 70. She was buried within the abbey walls, where her tomb was sealed.
Children: 0
Parents: Daughter of William the Conqueror and Matilda of Flanders.