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Monument · Stavanger, Rogaland
Sverd i fjell
Three 10-metre bronze swords planted in the rock at the edge of Hafrsfjord, south of Stavanger, in memory of the battle in which, according to tradition, Haroldo Cabelos Belos united Norway.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Sverd i fjell
Sverd i fjell, Espadas na Rocha, is the monument of three bronze swords embedded in a rock on the shore of the Hafrsfjord, about 6 km from Stavanger city centre. The swords are about 10 metres high and were created by the sculptor Fritz Røed, with hilts inspired by Viking swords found in the country.
The monument commemorates the battle of Hafrsfjord at the end of the 9th century, when, according to the sagas, King Haroldo Cabelos Belos defeated the local chieftains and brought the small coastal kingdoms under one crown, a landmark in the formation of Norway. The larger sword represents the victor; the two smaller ones, the defeated. Embedded in the rock, they symbolize peace: the swords would not be used again.
The site is an open park in the Møllebukta inlet, with lawn, a small beach and paths along the fjord, used by residents for walks and swimming in summer. At sunset the swords are silhouetted against the water.
It is near the Madla neighbourhood, on the way to the beaches of the Jæren coast and to Sola airport.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 20 to 40 minutes.
Best time
All year round, preferably late in the afternoon when the light is low over the fjord. In summer, the small beach beside it is often used for swimming.
How to get there
It is about 6 km from Stavanger city centre, in the Møllebukta inlet, in Madla. City buses stop nearby; by car there is parking next to the site.
Tip
Combine it with a visit to the beaches of Jæren to the south, or with the trip to the airport. Bring a snack for the grassy area by the fjord.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Sverd i fjell
What do the three swords represent?
The battle of Hafrsfjord, in which, according to the sagas, Haroldo Cabelos Belos united Norway. The larger sword represents the victor; the smaller ones, the defeated.
Where is the monument?
In the Møllebukta inlet, on the shore of the Hafrsfjord, about 6 km from Stavanger city centre.
How large are the swords?
About 10 metres high, made of bronze, embedded in the rock.
How to get there without a car?
By city bus to Madla and a short walk to the inlet.