Illtud (Illtyd, Eltut, Hildutus) (d. in the early 6th century), founder and Abbot of Llanilltud Fawr (Llantwit Major). The early life of Samson claims that Illtud was a disciple of Germanus of Auxerre, that he was the most learned Briton in the study of Scripture and Philosophy, and that he was the Abbot of his Monastery in Glamorgan. The earliest Life of Illtud, full of implausible legends, was written about 1140. From it may perhaps be retained the claim that he sailed to Brittany with some corn ships to relieve the famine: some Breton churches and villages certainly bear his name. The same Life (abridged in N.L.A.) tells of Illtud's bell being recovered from King Edgar's armies and of Illtud's protecting his people against the people of North Wales in the time of King William. A 9th century inscription on a cross at Llantwit mentions 'Iltet, Samson and Edisar', but there is no formal evidence for a cult surviving from before the 11th century. Many churches in Wales, however, are dedicated to him, while his Monastery, reputed to contain hundreds of Monks, was one of the most influential in South Wales. His feast day is November 6th.
