Lady Godiva

The statue of one of Coventry's great citizens.

Godiva was the wife of Leofric, Earl of Mercia, one of the most powerful noblemen in 11th century England. The couple gave generously to religious establishments and in 1043 founded and endowed a monastery at Coventry.

Leofric became so exasperated by Godiva's endless appeals to reduce Coventry's heavy taxes that he declared he would do so if she rode naked through the crowded marketplace. She did so, with her hair covering all of her body except her legs. As a result Leofric freed the town from all tolls save those on horses. Godiva required the townsmen to remain indoors at the time of her ride but one man - "Peeping Tom" - looked at her out of his window and was struck blind.