The North Norwegian chieftain Ottar of Hålogaland, also called Ottar of Lenvik, lived in the 9th century. During this time, he lived here in Northern Norway. Many believe that Ottar's chieftainship was located in Hålogaland, south of Malangen, where the area "Lenjuvich" (Lenvika) is located. Others believe that his residence was further south, in the beautiful strait "Gisundet."
According to ancient sources, Ottar is said to have told the Anglo-Saxon King Alfred about his journey to England at the end of the 9th century. Among other things, he mentioned that he lived in the northernmost part of Norway of all Norwegians. He further recounts his voyage to England, saying that he sailed south along the coast, with Norway on his left the entire time. These reports represent, to our knowledge to date, the first official mention of our homeland, Norway, abroad.
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