Elgeseter Priory
Elgeseter Priory was a significant Augustinian monastic house established in Trondheim, Norway, no later than 1183. Strategically located across the Nidelven river from Nidaros Cathedral and connected by a bridge, it played a role in medieval political events, notably the killing of Duke Skule Bårdsson outside its walls in 1240. Suppressed during the Reformation in 1537, its buildings were later destroyed by fire and the site subsequently used as a quarry, leaving no visible ruins today.
Key Facts
- ›Founded by Archbishop Eystein no later than 1183.
- ›Belonged to the Augustinian Canons.
- ›Situated across the Nidelven river from Nidaros Cathedral.
- ›Connected to the cathedral by Elgeseter Bridge.
- ›Duke Skule Bårdsson was killed outside the priory in 1240.
- ›Suppressed in 1537 and buildings burned down in 1564.
- Connection To Nidaros Cathedral Via Elgeseter Bridge
- Site of Duke Skule BåRdsson's Death
Helgeseter Priory, Elgeseter Kloster
Archbishop Eystein, Duke Skule BåRdsson
Founding of the Priory, Killing of Duke Skule BåRdsson, Suppression During the Reformation, Burning of Buildings
About Elgeseter Priory
Elgeseter Priory, also known as Helgeseter Priory or Elgeseter kloster, was a medieval house of Augustinian Canons located in what is now the Elgeseter neighborhood of Trondheim, Norway. Its founding by Archbishop Eystein no later than 1183 marked its establishment as a significant religious and political entity.
History and Significance
The priory held a strategic position across the Nidelven river from Nidaros Cathedral, to which it was connected by Elgeseter Bridge. This proximity facilitated the canons' duties in the cathedral choir and underscored the priory's integration into the ecclesiastical life of the region. Elgeseter Priory also became entangled in political events of the era. In May 1240, Duke Skule Bårdsson sought refuge at the monastery following an attack by the Birkebeiners in Nidaros. However, his pursuers set fire to the priory, forcing him out, where he and his son Peter were subsequently killed.
The priory's existence concluded with the Reformation. It was suppressed in 1537, though the old prior remained until 1546. The buildings later suffered destruction by fire in 1564. Following this, from 1606 onwards, the site was repurposed as a quarry, providing building materials for Vår Frue Church and the Archbishop's Palace in Trondheim. Today, no visible ruins of Elgeseter Priory survive, but archaeological evidence suggests underground remains exist beneath the modern streets of Klostergata.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Elgeseter Priory founded?
Elgeseter Priory was founded by Archbishop Eystein no later than 1183. This places its establishment firmly within the medieval era.
What religious order was associated with Elgeseter Priory?
Elgeseter Priory was a house of Augustinian Canons. This order followed the Rule of Saint Augustine and was known for its blend of monastic and clerical life.
What is the historical significance of Elgeseter Priory?
The priory held political importance, notably as the site where Duke Skule Bårdsson was killed in 1240 after being attacked by the Birkebeiners. It was also strategically connected to Nidaros Cathedral.
What happened to Elgeseter Priory after its suppression?
The priory was suppressed during the Reformation in 1537. Its buildings were subsequently burned down in 1564, and the site was later used as a quarry for construction in Trondheim.
Are there any visible remains of Elgeseter Priory today?
No visible ruins of Elgeseter Priory remain today. Underground remains are believed to lie beneath the present streets in the Elgeseter neighborhood of Trondheim.
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