It’s easy to pass by the ancient thingstead at Haugar without realizing the symbolic significance of this site in Tønsberg’s history. In the Viking Age and the Middle Ages, many important assemblies and meetings were held here, giving the place its name, Haugating.
Text and photo: Espen Jørgensen
From Haugar, there is an excellent view of the town and surrounding areas, which made it a strategic location for holding assemblies.
Originally, Haugating was likely a local assembly (allting). Assemblies were central to the Old Norse society, serving as forums for resolving disputes, discussing and organizing community matters, and more. Many important decisions were made by Tønsberg’s powerful men at Haugar, dealing with laws, regulations, punishment, and governance. During the Middle Ages, Haugating also became a site for the hailing of new kings.
Kings Hailed at Haugating
The first royal hailing at Haugar took place in the year of Our Lord 1130, shortly after the death of King Sigurd the Crusader (Sigurd Jorsalfare). Harald Gillekrist was hailed as king, having proven his royal lineage the year before by walking over seven, possibly nine, glowing plowshares in Sem Church.
However, this event plunged the country into a long and bloody civil war, as Sigurd’s son, Magnus, was hailed as king in Oslo around the same time. This civil war would last for over a century. The events at Haugating had serious consequences for Norway and mark the first time Haugating is mentioned in written records.
Turbulent Times
Haugating is mentioned again in 1165 when King Valdemar I of Denmark called for an assembly there. The Danish king was on a campaign in Viken, claiming overlordship, but both the farmers and local leaders refused to attend the assembly.
These were turbulent times in Norway, and various factions gathered at Haugating to assert their claims to power. In 1185, the Kuvlung faction came to Haugar to present their cause. In 1193, a group called the Øyskjegger visited Haugar to stake their claims. In 1204, the Bagler king Erling Steinvegg was hailed by his supporters at Haugating. Clearly, Haugar was a hub of activity during the Middle Ages.
The Burial Mounds at Haugar
Haugating is last mentioned as a site for royal hailing in 1319. After that, Tønsberg lost its prominence as a royal seat to Oslo.
On the highest point of Haugar, two burial mounds are located. According to Snorri’s Heimskringla, these are linked to Harald Fairhair’s sons Olaf and Sigrød, who are said to be buried here after being killed by their bloodthirsty, power-hungry brother, Eirik Bloodaxe, around 934. Eirik Bloodaxe also murdered a third brother, Bjørn Farmann, whose story can be read on these pages. (The Oseberg Viking Heritage´s ship Saga Farmann is named after him). Near one of the mounds stands a memorial stone with a plaque commemorating the two royal sons. Archaeological excavations have uncovered some human bones and burned charcoal but no major findings.
A Walk Through History
A walk on Haugar is a journey through history. The area is beautiful year-round, particularly in autumn, summer, or a frosty winter day when the trees and grass sparkle with frost. It’s magical and exciting, especially if you know a little about the site’s history.
Photo: Espen Jørgensen
Photo: Espen Jørgensen
