Ordulf, Duke of Saxony facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ordulf |
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| Duke of Saxony | |
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| Reign | 1059–1072 |
| Predecessor | Bernard II |
| Successor | Magnus |
| Born | c. 1022 |
| Died | 28 March 1072 |
| Burial | Saint Michael Church in Lüneburg |
| Spouse | Wulfhild of Norway Gertrude of Haldensleben |
| Issue | Magnus, Duke of Saxony |
| House | House of Billung |
| Father | Bernard II |
| Mother | Eilika of Schweinfurt |
Ordulf (also known as Otto), born around 1022, was an important leader in a region called Saxony. He became the duke of Saxony in 1059, taking over from his father, Bernard II. Ordulf belonged to a powerful family known as the Billung family. He ruled until his death on March 28, 1072.
Ordulf's Time as Duke
Ordulf's rule was mostly spent dealing with conflicts. He often had to fight against a group of people known as the Wends. These were Slavic tribes who lived near Saxony.
To help him in these struggles, Ordulf formed a strong partnership with Denmark. He made this alliance even stronger by marrying Wulfhild of Norway in 1042. Wulfhild was the daughter of King Olaf II of Norway, a famous king of Norway.
Family Life
Ordulf and Wulfhild had a son named Magnus. Magnus later became the Duke of Saxony after Ordulf passed away, continuing the family's leadership.
After Wulfhild's death, Ordulf married a second time to a woman named Gertrude. She was the daughter of a count from Haldensleben. Ordulf and Gertrude also had a son named Bernard. Sadly, Bernard died after falling from a horse in Lüneburg.
Ordulf was buried in the Church of St. Michael, which is located in Lüneburg, Germany.
