Berhtrad

This name derives from the Old High German name “Bertrad / Berhtrad,” composed of two elements: “*berhtaz” (light, bright, clear, shining one) plus “*rēdaz” (help, advise, counsel, decision). In turn, the name means “illustrious councilor.” 1) Bertrada of Prüm, also called Berthe, and perhaps a Merovingian princess, is known to be the mother of Charibert of Laon, with whom she is co-founder and benefactor of the Prüm Abbey. They founded the abbey in 721. 2) Bertrada of Laon, also known as Bertrada the Younger or Bertha Broadfoot, was a Frankish queen. She was the wife of Pepin the Short and the mother of Charlemagne, Carloman, and Gisela. 3) Bertrade de Montfort was the daughter of Simon I de Montfort and Agnes, Countess of Evreux. Her brother was Amaury de Montfort.