Gorm the Old (Gorm den Gamle, c. 900–958 AD) was the first historically recognized King of Denmark. He is best known for uniting Denmark and being the father of Harald Bluetooth, who later converted Denmark to Christianity.
Gorm’s Reign and Legacy
Gorm ruled from Jelling, Denmark, which became the centre of Viking royal power.
He was known as a staunch pagan, resisting Christian influences during his rule.
He built the first Jelling Stone, which honoured his wife, Queen Thyra, and was dedicated to Norse gods.
He is considered the founder of the Danish monarchy, setting the stage for a unified Denmark.
Family and Succession
Wife: Queen Thyra, often credited with strengthening Denmark’s defences.
Son: Harald Bluetooth, who later Christianized Denmark and expanded its territory.
Harald erected a second Jelling Stone, which commemorated both Gorm and Thyra, marking the transition from paganism to Christianity in Denmark.
Death and Burial
Gorm likely died around 958 AD, with some accounts suggesting his death was caused by grief after hearing false news of his son Harald’s death.
Originally buried in a pagan grave in Jelling, but later reburied in the Jelling Church after Denmark’s conversion to Christianity.
His burial site and the Jelling Stones are now part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
