Audun Hugleiksson

Who was Audun Hugleiksson?

Audun Hugleiksson was a Norwegian nobleman at the end of the 13th century. He was the king's right hand, both under King Magnus Lagabøte and King Eirik Magnusson, and was seen as an important politician and lawman in his time. He played a central role in reforming the Norwegian law system. From 1280 and onwards he was given increasingly important roles in the government of Norway. He had his own seat on the king's council, was a lawyer, tax minister and a baron. He also erected a castle or fortress in stone called Audunborg on Ålhus in Jølster in Sunnfjord.

Audun Hugleiksson was executed during the reign of King Haakon V of Norway. After 1295 Audun seems to have played a less important role in the Norwegian Council. But he remained in his position as a treasurer. In July 1299, King Eirik Magnusson died and immediately succeeded by his younger brother, King Haakon V. During August 1299, Audun Hugleiksson was arrested. He was imprisoned for three years until he was sentenced to death. All his properties were seized and placed under the king. He was hanged at Nordnes in Bergen on Sunday the 2 December 1302.