BattlefieldsHaakon IV Gathers Fleet at Kirkwall 1263
Medieval

Haakon IV Gathers Fleet at Kirkwall 1263

1263
Orkney Islands, Scotland
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Orkney Islands, Scotland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Forces
Not recorded in historical accounts
Forces
Scottish forces
VS
Victor
Not recorded in historical accounts
Forces
c.15,000-20,000 Norwegian fleet
Outcome
Fleet of approximately 200 ships assembled at Kirkwall with warriors from Norway, Orkney and the Hebrides; sailed south through the Pentland Firth to the western isles.
The Battle

History & Significance

King Haakon IV of Norway assembled one of the largest medieval Scandinavian fleets at Kirkwall in Orkney before sailing south to confront Alexander III at Largs. The fleet numbered between 120 and 200 vessels including the royal flagship Mariasuden. The Kirkwall assembly was the last great expression of Norwegian maritime power in the west and the final assertion of sovereignty over the Hebrides that would end with the Treaty of Perth in 1266.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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