Sverd I Fjell, or Swords in Rock, is one of the most spectacular and imposing monuments. Three giant Viking swords are created in Hafrsfjord in memory of an ancient battle that united Norway into one kingdom. This Monument was created by sculptor Fritz Røed and inaugurated by King Olav in 1983.
Viking swords statue, Norway
Three gigantic Viking swords, 10 metres high, stick into the hard rock of the Norwegian region Møllebukta, Stavanger, in honour of the battle in 872 A.D., which united all under the command of Norway's Harald Hårfagre. Thus begins one of the golden ages of the Scandinavian country. The Monument represents peace, unity, and freedom.
The crowns and the size of the swords also symbolise the three different states that took part in the battle. The two smaller swords represent the defeated petty kings, and the biggest sword represents the Viking King Harald and the symbolism of peace, since they, being nailed in the rock, will not return to be used, and they may never be removed.
The Battle of Hafrsfjord in 872 is widely regarded as the conflict that ultimately brought about unity between the warring factions in western Norway. In reality, the unification process probably took hundreds of years, but popular legend says that this was a battle that achieved peace. The decisive battle is thought to have taken place between King Harald Beautiful Hair and two lesser forces. King Harald eventually defeated the opposing forces and brought Norway under his rule.
Swords in Rock – Hafrsfjord
So popular was this battle that there are a couple to honour him. The Sverd I Fjell Norway monument certainly seems to honour legend more than reality, with its fantastic giant swords. The Monument was established in 1983 by King Olav V and has stood proudly ever since. The swords stand over 30 feet tall and are sculpted to resemble traditional Viking sabres. They are forever planted within the rock of a small hill.
While two of the swords have hilts, without the basic ornaments, the tallest of the three swords is slightly more elaborate, representing King Harald's victory.
First Image credit: Atle
Image credit Øyvind Andersen
Image credit Øyvind Andersen
Image credit: Alfred Bonjoc Ferolino
Image credit Esteban Manchado
Image credit Edgar Vonk
Image credit: Bob Bennett
Image credit: Bob Bennett
Image credit Lauren Horoszewski
Image credit Alicia Castellano
Sword in Rock - Hafrsfjord | Map
Image credit Skimaniac
Source — Wikipedia
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