Legendary Founder: King Lud
One of the most famous medieval myths was popularized by Geoffrey of Monmouth in his Historia Regum Britanniae (History of the Kings of Britain), written around 1136.
Geoffrey claimed that London was founded by King Lud, a mythical British king, and named “Caer Lud” (Fort Lud). According to this legend, the city’s name evolved from Lud’s name.
However, historians now view this story as a fanciful invention with no historical basis.
Other Folk Theories
- Some suggest London means “The Place of the Moon” (from Old English or Celtic words for “moon” or “brightness”), but this is not supported by linguistic evidence.
- Others have speculated about meanings like “river too wide to ford” or “the place that floods,” relating to the geography of the Thames, but these remain unproven.
The Name “London” in Modern Times
By the Middle Ages, the name had stabilized into forms close to the modern “London.” The city’s importance grew, and London became synonymous with power, governance, and commerce.
The name “London” also spread globally due to the British Empire. Today, many places around the world bear the name London, from Canada to the United States, reflecting the influence of the British capital.
Conclusion: A Name Steeped in History and Mystery
The name “London” is a window into the city’s deep past. Though its exact origins remain debated, it is clear that the name has ancient roots, possibly Celtic, adapted by Roman, Anglo-Saxon, and medieval peoples.
The evolution from Londinium to London mirrors the city’s transformation from a Roman outpost to a medieval town and finally a modern metropolis.
While we may never know the definitive origin of the name, the rich tapestry of history, language, and legend surrounding “London” reflects the city’s enduring significance through the ages. shutdown123