Krokek
Christian·Sweden·locality·15th century
Krokek is a locality in Norrköping Municipality, Sweden, with a history stretching back to the Stone Age. It is primarily known for its association with a medieval monastery, established between the 1420s and 1440s, and the "crooked oak" that gave the settlement its name. The area also holds historical significance as a potential site for the Iron Age Battle of Brávellir and is situated within the ancient forest of Kolmården.
Key Facts
- ›The name 'Krokek' derives from 'krokig ek,' meaning 'crooked oak,' a landmark at the border of Östergötland and Sörmland.
- ›A monastery was established in Krokek between the 1420s and 1440s.
- ›The locality is situated in Östergötland County, Sweden.
- ›The area shows evidence of settlements dating back to the Stone Age and Iron Age gravefields.
- ›The Battle of Brávellir, a significant Iron Age conflict, is believed to have occurred near Krokek.
- ›The Kolmården forest, surrounding Krokek, is mentioned in 11th-century writings.
Crooked Oak Landmark, Krokeks öDekyrka, KolmåRden Forest
Krokeks öDekyrka, Kung Fredriks Kyrka
Battle of BráVellir, Getå Railroad Disaster
About Krokek
Krokek is a locality in Norrköping Municipality, Östergötland County, Sweden, with a history that extends back to the Stone Age. The settlement's name, 'Krokek,' is derived from the Old Norse 'krokig ek,' meaning 'crooked oak,' which historically marked the border between the provinces of Östergötland and Södermanland. This natural landmark played a role in the establishment of the area and is linked to the medieval monastery that was founded here.
Historical Significance
The region surrounding Krokek has been inhabited for millennia, evidenced by Stone Age settlements and Iron Age gravefields indicating farmsteads. A significant, though debated, historical event associated with the area is the Battle of Brávellir, a legendary Iron Age conflict. The extensive forest of Kolmården, within which Krokek is situated, is mentioned in historical records dating back to the 11th century.
Medieval Monastery and Landmark Oak
A notable historical development in Krokek was the establishment of a monastery, which took place between the 1420s and 1440s. The monastery was associated with an old church known as Krokeks Ödekyrka, also referred to as Kung Fredriks kyrka. The 'crooked oak' that gave the locality its name was a prominent feature near this church until it was felled in 1912 after splitting during a storm in 1902.
Modern Context
In more recent history, Krokek became a stop on the railway line between Nyköping and Norrköping, with its station named Kolmården station since 2000. The area also bears the somber distinction of being near the site of the Getå railroad disaster in 1918, Sweden's worst train accident. Today, Krokek is a functioning locality within Östergötland County.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the origin of the name Krokek?
The name Krokek originates from the Swedish phrase 'krokig ek,' which translates to 'crooked oak.' This refers to a specific crooked oak tree that served as a natural marker on the border between the historical provinces of Östergötland and Södermanland.
When was the monastery in Krokek established?
The monastery in Krokek was established in the period between the 1420s and 1440s. This medieval monastery is a significant part of the locality's historical identity.
What is the historical significance of the crooked oak?
The crooked oak was a natural landmark used to denote the border between Östergötland and Södermanland. It was mentioned in medieval documents and was associated with the late monastery of Krokek. The original oak split during a storm in 1902 and was later cut down.
Are there any notable historical events associated with Krokek?
Krokek is located in an area believed to be the site of the Battle of Brávellir, a major battle from the Iron Age. Additionally, the Getå railroad disaster, Sweden's worst train accident, occurred on the railway line that passes through Krokek.
What is the meaning of the name Kolmården?
Kolmården, the large forest where Krokek is situated, can be roughly translated into modern Swedish as 'Den mörka skogen,' meaning 'The dark forest.' This name reflects the ancient and dense nature of the woodland.
Related Monasteries
Mariefred Charterhouse
Mariefred Charterhouse was the sole Carthusian monastery in Scandinavia, established in the late 15th century through the efforts of the Archbishop of Uppsala and the Bishop of Strängnäs. It played a role in early printing with a press producing devotional tracts before its secularization in 1526. Today, virtually no monastic structures remain above ground, with a modern church built partly on its former site.
Alvastra Abbey
Alvastra Abbey was a significant Cistercian monastery established in 1143 by French monks from Clairvaux Abbey, on land donated by King Sverker I of Sweden. For nearly four centuries, it flourished and even established another monastery at Varnhem. The abbey was dissolved during the Protestant Reformation and is now known as a ruin, notable for containing the graves of several Swedish monarchs and queens.
Ås Abbey
Ås Abbey was a significant Cistercian monastery established in 1192, becoming the first, largest, and wealthiest in the Halland region. It played a notable role in medieval Scandinavia, with royal connections and burials of Swedish royalty. The abbey ceased operation in the early 16th century, and its buildings were destroyed during the Count's Feud in 1535, with its site now occupied by the manor house Åsklosters kungsgård.