Absalon

Absalon or Axel (c. 1128 – 21 March 1201) is a Danish archbishop and diplomat, who is the Bishop of Roskilde from 1158 to 1192 and Archbishop of Lund from 1178 until his death.

He is the foremost politician and churchfather of Denmark in the second half of the 12th century, and is the closest advisor of King Valdemar I of Denmark.

He wis a key figure in the Danish policies of territorial expansion in the Baltic Sea, Europeanization in close relationship with the Holy See, and reform in the relation between the Church and the public.

He combines the ideals of Gregorian Reform ideals with loyal support of a strong monarchical power.

Absalon was born into the powerful Hvide clan, and owns great land possessions.

He endows several church institutions, most prominently his family's Sorø Abbey.

He is granted lands by the crown, and builds the first fortification of the city that evolves into modern-day Copenhagen.

His titles are passed on to his nephews Anders Sunesen and Peder Sunesen.

He dies in 1201, and is interred at Sorø Abbey.

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