Pope Sergius I
That Aldhelm's merits as a scholar were early recognised in his own country is shown by the encomium of Bede ("Historia ecclesiastica gentis Anglorum" 5.18), who speaks of him as a wonder of erudition. His fame reached Italy, and at the request of Pope Sergius I he paid a visit to Rome, of which, however, there is no notice in his extant writings. On his return, bringing with him privileges for his monastery and a magnificent altar, he received a popular ovation.