Madam, - The Communauté Artois-Lys (CAL) is a region in the north of France between Béthune and Saint-Omer with a population of 33,560. It groups a number of villages around the town of Lillers, which has a population of 10,000.
Lillers got its name from Lilia, an Irishwoman whose brothers Lugle and Luglien were slain by bandits while on their way to Jerusalem on pilgrimage in 696. They had crossed the Irish Sea, Wales, England and the Channel when their group was attacked by brigands led by Bovon of Busnettes, Hesselin of Ferfay and Béranger of Pressy.
Lugle and Luglien had been prominent at the time in Ireland. Their father, Dodan, was an important chieftain, apparently in "Ibénie", which could be the region known as Uibh Mháine, or Iban in Co Cork. Their mother's name was Rélanie.
A comprehensive account of the massacre and of the life stories of the two men was written by Erkembode, who was travelling with them and who was left for dead by the assailants.
He survived the terrible experience and became bishop of Thérouanne in 723. From the shrine to their memory which was established by their sister, the town grew.
The two men were reputed to be martyrs and saints, and a fine reliquary dedicated to them is still conserved at Montdidier. Until the late 18th century, the names Lugle and Luglien were given to boys in the north of France.
In June next year, a son et lumière show recalling their story will be presented in Lillers. This will relate the history of the period both in Ireland and in the north of France.
If any of your readers can cast light on the meaning of the names of the five Irish persons mentioned above, or could give information on the impulse which inspired people to undertake such long pilgrimages at the time, we in the Communauté Artois-Lys would be most grateful for their help. - Yours, etc.,
ANDRÉ FLAJOLET, President, Communauté Artois-Lys, 7 rue de la Haye, 62190 Lillers, France.
(contact@cc-artois-fr)