Maria Haraldsdotter facts for kids
Maria Haraldsdotter was a princess from Norway. She was the daughter of King Harald Hardrada and Queen Elisiv of Kiev. Maria died on September 25, 1066. She is the first Norwegian person we know of who was named Maria.
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A Royal Journey to Britain
In the year 1066, Maria joined her father, King Harald, on an important trip to Britain. Her sister, Ingegerd, and her mother, Queen Elisiv, also went along. This journey was part of King Harald's plan to expand his kingdom.
Staying in Orkney
During the expedition, Maria, Ingegerd, and Queen Elisiv stayed behind in Orkney. Orkney is a group of islands north of Scotland. King Harald left them there while he gathered more soldiers for his army. This was a common practice for royal families during long military campaigns.
A Fateful Day
King Harald Hardrada was killed in a big battle called the Battle of Stamford Bridge. This battle happened on September 25, 1066. It was a very important day in history.
A Broken Promise
Before the battle, King Harald had arranged for Maria to marry a man named Eystein Orre. Eystein Orre was also a brave warrior. Sadly, Eystein Orre also died in the Battle of Stamford Bridge, just like King Harald.
Maria's Sudden Death
After the battle, King Harald's son, Olaf, returned to Orkney with the rest of the fleet. They brought the sad news of the king's death. Even more tragically, they learned that Maria had also died suddenly. She passed away on the very same day her father was killed in battle.
