Alfred the Great is believed to have sent an embassy to India in 883 CE, as recorded in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, possibly to offer alms at the shrines of St Thomas and St Bartholomew.
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- The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle mentions that Alfred sent emissaries named Sigehelm and Athelstan to India in 883 CE.
- The mission was linked to a vow Alfred made during his conflict with Viking forces at London.
- Emissaries were said to carry alms to the shrines of St Thomas and St Bartholomew in India.
- The journey reflects early medieval links between Europe and the Indian subcontinent.
- 12th-century historians like William of Malmesbury and John of Worcester also recorded this event.
- Sigehelm is believed to have successfully reached India and later returned to England.
- After his return, Sigehelm was appointed as Bishop of Sherborne.
- William of Malmesbury described the journey as an "astonishing feat" for that period.
- Historians debate the authenticity and feasibility of such a long-distance journey in the 9th century.
- The account highlights the importance of religious networks and pilgrimage routes in medieval times.
- It also suggests possible indirect trade and cultural connections between Anglo-Saxon England and India.