Erik Rosenkrantz - Bergenhus Fortress - Bergen, Norway
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SMacB
N 60° 23.941 E 005° 19.105
32V E 297199 N 6701517
Erik Ottesen Rosenkrantz (born 1519 at Tørning in Denmark , died 18 November 1575 at Arreskov on Funen ) was a Danish - Norwegian nobleman and sheriff of Bergenhus from 1560 to 1568.
Waymark Code: WM1AGAF
Location: Vestland, Norway
Date Posted: 08/16/2024
Views: 1
Erik Rosenkrantz (1519–1575) was a distinguished member of the Danish-Norwegian nobility, best known for his role as governor of Bergenhus from 1560 to 1568. Born into the influential Rosenkrantz family, he gained prominence through military leadership, particularly during the Nordic Seven Years' War (1563–1570), where he played a key role in recapturing Trøndelag from Swedish forces.
Rosenkrantz's governorship at Bergenhus was marked by significant architectural and urban development. He oversaw the enhancement of Bergenhus Fortress, including the construction of the Rosenkrantz Tower, which bears his name. The tower, a blend of medieval fortification and Renaissance architecture, served both as a defensive structure and as a symbol of his authority.
Beyond his military and architectural achievements, Rosenkrantz also contributed to the growth of Bergen as a city. His leadership extended to strengthening Bergen's defenses, improving its infrastructure, and fostering urban development.
Erik Rosenkrantz was married to Helvig Hardenberg, a member of another noble family, and together they had five children. Their marriage further solidified the alliance between the Rosenkrantz and Hardenberg families. After his service in Norway, Rosenkrantz returned to Denmark, where he lived out his final years.
His legacy is particularly remembered in Bergen, where the Rosenkrantz Tower remains a significant historical landmark, reflecting his influence during a crucial period in Norwegian history.
Bearer of Coat of Arms: Noble (aristocratic) family
Full name of the bearer: Erik Rosenkrantz
Where is Coat of Arms installed (short description) ?:
East wall of tower
Material / Design: Stone
Blazon (heraldic description):
1st and 4th quarters: Party per bend azure (blue) and gules (red), a bend chequy sable (black) and argent (silver) (the 4th quarter in reverse).
2nd and 3rd quarters: Party per bend gules (red) and azure (blue), a lion rampant crowned or (gold) (the 3rd quarter in reverse).
Address:
Bergenhus Fortress,
Bergenhus 4,
5003 Bergen,
Norway
Web page about the structure where is Coat of Arms installed (if exists): [Web Link]
Web page about the bearer of Coat of Arms (if exists): [Web Link]
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