Olav Magnusson of Norway facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Olav Magnusson |
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Coin bearing Olav's name. Last Norwegian monarch positively identified on a coin until Sverre.
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| King of Norway | |
| Reign | 1103 – 22 December 1115 |
| Predecessor | Magnus III |
| Successor | Eystein I and Sigurd I |
| Born | 1099 |
| Died | 22 December 1115 (aged 16) Nidaros |
| Burial | Nidaros Cathedral |
| House | Hardrada |
| Father | Magnus III of Norway |
| Mother | Sigrid Saxesdatter |
Olav Magnusson was a young king of Norway who ruled for a short time. He was born in 1099 and died in 1115 when he was only 16 years old. Olav became king alongside his two older half-brothers, Sigurd and Øystein. They shared the rule of Norway after their father, King Magnus Barefoot, passed away.
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Becoming King of Norway
Olav Magnusson became king in 1103. He was only four years old at the time. He shared the throne with his half-brothers, Sigurd Jorsalfar and Øystein Magnusson. This happened after their father, King Magnus Barefoot, died.
Sharing the Throne
Olav ruled Norway for twelve years. However, he was very young during his reign. Because of his age, his older brothers acted as regents. A regent is someone who governs a country when the king or queen is too young or unable to rule. They made decisions for Olav's part of the kingdom.
The Roles of His Brothers
Olav's brothers played important roles during their shared rule. They were much older and more experienced.
King Sigurd's Crusade
In 1107, King Sigurd led a big journey. This journey was a Norwegian crusade. A crusade was a religious war, often to support Christian lands. Sigurd went to help the new crusader Kingdom of Jerusalem. He returned to Norway in 1111.
King Øystein's Leadership
While Sigurd was away, King Øystein took charge. He served as a regent for both Olav and Sigurd. Øystein worked hard to make Norway strong and peaceful. He used his energy to create a stable country.
Olav's Early Death
In 1115, Olav became very sick. He passed away on December 22, 1115. He was only 16 years old when he died.
Succession After Olav
After Olav's death, his brothers continued to rule Norway. They were already co-rulers. Olav was once known as "Olav III" in the list of Norwegian monarchs. However, this counting was later changed.
