BLACK ROOD OF WALTHAM

The chief relic of Waltham Abbey, a life-size crucifix. A new church was consecrated in 1060, its chief patron being Harold Godwineson, later King Harold II. It was said that when Harold visited Waltham on his way from the Battle of Stamford Bridge to Hastings in 1066, the figure of Christ bowed its head in sorrow, having foresight of the king's death. One fable also had it that Harold was secretly buried at the abbey.