The story behind Saint Magnhild

The name MAGNHILD is chosen with care. In Fulltofta, Skåne, where the Magnhild foundation has its seat, there is still Saint Magnhild's well today.

The text below is pure assumptions based on personal research in popular science texts:

Legend has it that Magnhild lived in the 12th century. She is said to have come from a well-to-do family and, according to the custom of the time, moved to her husband's parents' farm in Benarp outside Hörby. After their son was born, Magnhild became a widow. She devoted her time and much of her inherited wealth to helping the poor and sick and caring for orphans. She was believed to have healing powers.
Magnhild is said to have been murdered with an arrow in the chest around 1215. Theories about who murdered her differ, but the daughter-in-law, who wanted to save the assets for herself, is mentioned in some sources. A gang of robbers is also listed as possible masterminds.

Magnhild received saint status in connection with her remains being carried from the murder site to Fulltofta church for burial. As the bearers put the coffin down to rest, a spring suddenly sprung up from the ground. This was seen as a sign and Magnhild received sainthood. Of the three Scanian saints mentioned in history, it is only confirmed that Magnhild actually lived.

Magnhild was declared a cult and during the 14th century was a real "house saint". Her burial place in Fulltofta church was so celebrated by visitors/worshippers during the 14th century that it was decided by the church that her remains should be moved, which was done. According to church protocol, there were spontaneous gatherings with festivities with elements of immorality, drunkenness, fornication and songs with inappropriate content at her grave. After the move, she is said to lie somewhere in Lund's cathedral, however, it is unclear exactly where. She was simply forgotten. The reason for the move may have had financial incentives on the part of the church, as the preservation of relics was associated with certain financial benefits for the church to which they were taken.

 

The fundraising foundation is a non-religious foundation, but nevertheless we wanted to honor Magnhild's alleged deed by naming the fundraising foundation after her. We need to remember people who act in an unselfish way to make a difference in their immediate vicinity. Saint or not, it is the deed that counts. Women throughout history who have done good are often both honored and humiliated. The story of Magnhild portrays her as kind-hearted but at the same time rich and with a lot of power. What is true or not is not easy to know, but Magnhild seems to have wanted to make a difference.

 

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