Hlodvir Thorfinnsson facts for kids

Hlodvir Thorfinnsson (born around 945, died 988) was an important Viking leader. He was known as the Jarl of Orkney, which meant he was a powerful ruler of the Northern Isles (a group of islands north of Scotland). He led these islands from about 980 to 987.

We know about Hlodvir from old stories called sagas. These include the Orkneyinga saga, and stories about kings Óláfr Tryggvason and St. Olaf. These sagas are our main source of information about Hlodvir.

Who Was Hlodvir Thorfinnsson?

Hlodvir was the son of another Jarl, Thorfinn Torf-Einarsson, and his mother was Grelod. He became the Jarl of Orkney after his brother, Ljot, passed away. Ljot had been hurt in a battle called Skitten Mire.

Hlodvir's Family Life

In 959, Hlodvir married a woman named Eðnu. She came from a royal family in Ireland. Hlodvir and Eðnu had one son, who later became famous as Sigurd the Stout. They also had at least two daughters. One daughter married a leader from the Hebrides named Gilli. Another daughter married Hávarð, who was a manager in Caithness.

How Hlodvir's Rule Ended

Hlodvir became sick and passed away in 988. After his death, his son, Sigurd II "the Stout", took over as Jarl. Hlodvir was buried in a place called Höfn in Caithness. Today, people believe this place is Huna in Scotland.