Denmark: Difference between revisions
(Created page with " ==Etymology and other names== ==History== ==Geography== ==Demographics== ==Economy== ==Culture== ==Government== ==Military== ==Education== ==Transportation== ==Notable People== ==Sources from old books== == Sources from old books: == === 1635. Historia mundi: or Mercator's atlas. London. by Gerhard Mercator. === <blockquote>DENMARKE is a large and populous Kingdome, commonly called Danemarch, as it were the Countrie of the Danes. But whence the originall of the Danes...") |
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==History== |
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==Geography== |
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==Demographics== |
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==Transportation== |
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==Notable People== |
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===1635. Historia mundi: or Mercator's atlas. London. by Gerhard Mercator.=== |
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<blockquote>DENMARKE is a large and populous Kingdome, commonly called Danemarch, as it were the Countrie of the Danes. But whence the originall of the Danes came, they themselves doe not know: Some doe fetch it from Danus, their first King, and some from the Dahi, a people of Asia. Dudo de S. Quintino, an ancient Writer (as Camden reporteth) doth affirme, that they came out of Scandia into the ancient seats of the Cimbrians. But they seeme to be so called from the waters, because AHA with them signifies a River, and they doe call themselves Daneman (that is) as it were, River-men, or Water-men. All Denmarke is a Peninsula, as the Description sheweth, and is divided into 184 Prefectships or Provinces, which they call Horret, and they are governed by so many Prefects skilfull in the Danish Lawes. It hath a King rather by election of the Nobles, than by succession of birth: the ancient manner of chusing him was, that when they gave their voyce, they stood in the open field upon stones, devoting by the firme stabilitie of the stones under them, the constancy of their election. The Kings are crowned at Hafnia in the Church of the blessed Virgine Mary before the Altar, and are led into the aforesaid Church by the Senatours of the Kingdome, the ensignes of regality being carried before them, as the Sword, Globe, and Crown. Neither are these things attributed to speciall Families, as it is in most Countries, but as every one excelleth in vertue and dignitie, so is hee chosen to that place. First the King is compelled to sweare that he will observe certaine written Articles, and that hee will strictly defend the Christian Religion, and the Lawes and Customes of the Kingdome. Afterward hee is anoynted by the Bishop of Roeschild, and first the Crowne is set upon his head by all the Senatours, who then take their oath to his Majestie, if they have not done it before the Coronation, and then the King maketh out of the Gentry some Knights by the light stroke of a sword, for some service done either in peace or warre. Thus the ancient Danes did establish an excellent Politicall State and Monarchie, neither hath any Nation ever brought them into subjection, or tooke away their Country Rites and Priviledges. But on the contrary the Northerne people, as the Danes, Swedens, Norwegians, have wasted almost Europe, and in some places have established Kingdomes. For the expedition of the Cimbrians against Italie is knowne unto all Historiographers, as also the Gothes subjecting of Spaine, the Longobards establishing of a Kingdome in Italie, the Normans seating themselves in France, the erecting of the Kingdome of Naples and Sicilie, and the attempt of Godfride upon Freseland against Charles the Great. g 1.1 Canutus the Great, his holding five Kingdomes a long time. For he was King of Denmarke, Swethland, Norwey, England, and Normandy, and sonne in law to Henry the third Emperour, of whom these verses are yet extant.<blockquote>Desine mirari quos garrula laudibus effertGraecia, quos jactat Roma superba duces. &c. Cease thou to wonder at those Captaines bold,Of which both Greece and Rome did boast of old.For now the Danish Land hath brought forth one.That is in vertue second unto none.By my atchievements I much fame attain'd,Five Kingdomes subject were to my command▪And me he chose his sonne in Law to be,Who was third Emperour of Germanie.My Iustice famous was, I shew'd the way,How powerfull Kings should their owne Lawes obey.</blockquote>By which it appeares, as also by the following warres, which divers Kings of the Familie of the Oldenburgs happily waged, that it is a warlike Nation, and fortunate in vanquishing their enemies both by Land and Sea. The Noble men and Senatours of the Kingdome have a free power to elect the Kings, but for the most part they chuse the Kings eldest sonne, unlesse there be some sufficient cause for the contrary. However, they alwayes chuse one of the Royall bloud, and they doe not suffer the Kingdome to be divided, unlesse they be compelled thereunto by civill warres. They send the younger sonnes or brothers into other Countries, seeing they cannot participate in the government of the Kingdome: and hence it is that so many expeditions are undertaken by them. Moreover, seeing all the Nobles and Common-people cannot live conveniently in their owne Countrie, therefore they seeke out to get themselves a more fit seate. For the Northerne people have abundance of children, in regard of their abundance of bloud and heate; they are quarrellers and fighters, they drinke and eate much, (for the cold Ayre excites their appetite) and yet digest it well, whence it is that they live long; they are faire complexioned, of great stature, crafty and faithfull. And an argument, that they are long liv'd, is that their Kings have raigned very long, many of them thirty yeares, some forty, and some longer. |
<blockquote>DENMARKE is a large and populous Kingdome, commonly called Danemarch, as it were the Countrie of the Danes. But whence the originall of the Danes came, they themselves doe not know: Some doe fetch it from Danus, their first King, and some from the Dahi, a people of Asia. Dudo de S. Quintino, an ancient Writer (as Camden reporteth) doth affirme, that they came out of Scandia into the ancient seats of the Cimbrians. But they seeme to be so called from the waters, because AHA with them signifies a River, and they doe call themselves Daneman (that is) as it were, River-men, or Water-men. All Denmarke is a Peninsula, as the Description sheweth, and is divided into 184 Prefectships or Provinces, which they call Horret, and they are governed by so many Prefects skilfull in the Danish Lawes. It hath a King rather by election of the Nobles, than by succession of birth: the ancient manner of chusing him was, that when they gave their voyce, they stood in the open field upon stones, devoting by the firme stabilitie of the stones under them, the constancy of their election. The Kings are crowned at Hafnia in the Church of the blessed Virgine Mary before the Altar, and are led into the aforesaid Church by the Senatours of the Kingdome, the ensignes of regality being carried before them, as the Sword, Globe, and Crown. Neither are these things attributed to speciall Families, as it is in most Countries, but as every one excelleth in vertue and dignitie, so is hee chosen to that place. First the King is compelled to sweare that he will observe certaine written Articles, and that hee will strictly defend the Christian Religion, and the Lawes and Customes of the Kingdome. Afterward hee is anoynted by the Bishop of Roeschild, and first the Crowne is set upon his head by all the Senatours, who then take their oath to his Majestie, if they have not done it before the Coronation, and then the King maketh out of the Gentry some Knights by the light stroke of a sword, for some service done either in peace or warre. Thus the ancient Danes did establish an excellent Politicall State and Monarchie, neither hath any Nation ever brought them into subjection, or tooke away their Country Rites and Priviledges. But on the contrary the Northerne people, as the Danes, Swedens, Norwegians, have wasted almost Europe, and in some places have established Kingdomes. For the expedition of the Cimbrians against Italie is knowne unto all Historiographers, as also the Gothes subjecting of Spaine, the Longobards establishing of a Kingdome in Italie, the Normans seating themselves in France, the erecting of the Kingdome of Naples and Sicilie, and the attempt of Godfride upon Freseland against Charles the Great. g 1.1 Canutus the Great, his holding five Kingdomes a long time. For he was King of Denmarke, Swethland, Norwey, England, and Normandy, and sonne in law to Henry the third Emperour, of whom these verses are yet extant.<blockquote>Desine mirari quos garrula laudibus effertGraecia, quos jactat Roma superba duces. &c. Cease thou to wonder at those Captaines bold,Of which both Greece and Rome did boast of old.For now the Danish Land hath brought forth one.That is in vertue second unto none.By my atchievements I much fame attain'd,Five Kingdomes subject were to my command▪And me he chose his sonne in Law to be,Who was third Emperour of Germanie.My Iustice famous was, I shew'd the way,How powerfull Kings should their owne Lawes obey.</blockquote>By which it appeares, as also by the following warres, which divers Kings of the Familie of the Oldenburgs happily waged, that it is a warlike Nation, and fortunate in vanquishing their enemies both by Land and Sea. The Noble men and Senatours of the Kingdome have a free power to elect the Kings, but for the most part they chuse the Kings eldest sonne, unlesse there be some sufficient cause for the contrary. However, they alwayes chuse one of the Royall bloud, and they doe not suffer the Kingdome to be divided, unlesse they be compelled thereunto by civill warres. They send the younger sonnes or brothers into other Countries, seeing they cannot participate in the government of the Kingdome: and hence it is that so many expeditions are undertaken by them. Moreover, seeing all the Nobles and Common-people cannot live conveniently in their owne Countrie, therefore they seeke out to get themselves a more fit seate. For the Northerne people have abundance of children, in regard of their abundance of bloud and heate; they are quarrellers and fighters, they drinke and eate much, (for the cold Ayre excites their appetite) and yet digest it well, whence it is that they live long; they are faire complexioned, of great stature, crafty and faithfull. And an argument, that they are long liv'd, is that their Kings have raigned very long, many of them thirty yeares, some forty, and some longer. |
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So much according to our Method concerning the Dukedome of Sleswicke and Holsatia: Fionia followes with the Isles lying round about it. Fionia,* 1.1 commonly called Fuynen is the chiefe of all other Isles lying in the Bay of Codonus from Zeland. It taketh its name from the beautie thereof, both in regard of the forme and situation.* 1.2 It is separated from the Continent of Denmarke, by so small and narrow a Sea flowing between them, called Middlesar, that it seemeth almost to cleave unto the Continent. This Iland as it looketh on the West toward Iutia, so on the East toward Zeland. It is 48 miles in length, and 16 in breadth. The Land (that I may omit the Sea which is full of fish) is a fruitfull soyle,* 1.3 and very profitable to the husbandman. For it aboundeth with such plentie of corne, that it sends store thereof yearly to other farre Countries, especially Wheate and Barley. And the ground, albeit it be very fruitfull and endowed with the gifts of Ceres, yet it is never dunged. Whence the Cities and Townes thereof are annoyed with filthy smells of the dung of cattle, which is cast out, being thereof no use, as Munster writeth. This Countrie aboundeth with so many Droves of Oxen,* 1.4 and breedeth such a number of Cowes and Horses, that it sends yearly into Germany great Heards and Droves of them. And in regard of the many woods which are in the Island, there is great store of game for hunting, as Harts, Hares, and Foxes. In the middle of it is the Metropolis or mother Citie called Ottania, or Ottonium commonly called Ottensel being a Bishops Seat,* 1.5 built as it appeares by many testimonies by Otto the first, about the time when he compeld King Herald to receive the Christian faith. This Citie is a famous Mart for the whole Island, in which about Epiphanie or Twelfetide there is a great meeting of the Islanders and especially the Nobles, as there is at Kile in Holsatia. Fionia is divided into five and twentie Prefectures, sixteene Cities, and six royall Castles. The other cities are in a manner equally distant from Ottonia, which is as it were the Center, and are so built of the Sea shoare, that in regard of the conveniencie of the Havens, they traffique not onely in the Balticke Sea, but also exercise their negotiations throughout all Swethland, and Norwey, Russia, the Low-countries, and Germany: the chiefe amongst them are Niburch, Swynburch, Foborch, Assens, Bowens, Middlefart, or Milvart, and Kettemynde, or Cortemund. The chiefe royall castles are Newburg, Hagenschow, Hinsgagel, Eschburg, and the Court of Rugard. Here are many Villages, and not a few Noble-mens houses. For this Island in regard of the pleasantnesse of the Climate, and fertilitie of the soyle is much esteemed by the Nobles. The sea doth yeeld great plentie of fish, and every Bay is so full thereof, that ships or boats being over set with them can hardly saile or row against them, which yet they do not take with any fishing engines, but with their hands. Those who dwell by the Sea side, besides tillage and husbandrie, doe use fishing, both which do furnish thē with all things necessarie for house-keeping. There are some places in this Island famous for warlike atchievements done not many yeares past.* 1.6 For there is a certaine mountaine called Ochenberg, not farre from the Castle Hagenschow, in which Iohn Rantzovius Knight and Generall of the field, for King Christian the third, in a great battle did overthrow Christopher Count of Oldenburg, in the yeare of Christ 1530, on the eleventh day of June, in which conflict were slaine two Counts, the one being the Count of Hage, the other of Tecklenburg, whose bodies being afterward taken up out of the field were brought to Ottonia, and buried in Canutus his Church about the same time also on the Mountaine Fauchburg, which is 4 mile distant from the Towne Ascens, some thousands of the Rebels were slaine and put to slight. This Countrie is adorned with many woods in which are great store of wild beasts. In the citie of Ottonium there are two famous Temples or Churches, one consecrated to Canutus,* 1.7 the other to Saint Francis. In this latter Iohn King of Denmarke, and his sonne Christierne, when they had spent 37 yeares in banishment and captivitie, were buried in the yeare 1559: about the other is a large and spacious court-yard, in which the King of Denmarke did renew his ancient league of friendship, with the Dukes of Holsatia and Sleswicke, An. 1580, they report also that the mother of King Christian the second did place up a certaine Altar here belonging to the Minorite Friars, a wonderfull curious piece of worke carved in wood, the like whereof is not to be found in Europe.* 1.8 Out of this Island from the Towne Ascen• it is eight miles into Iuitland or Iutia, and from Nyburge into Zeland is a passage of sixteene miles long through the Baltieke Sea, which is very dangerous, especially if the Sea be rough, for when the East Sea being increased by the receit of many rivers is thrust forward with a violent course, it often happens that contrarie windes do raise such mightie waves, & make the sea so unquiet, that Mariners are many times to great danger drawne in with these gulphlike windings of the waters & sometimes swallowed up by them. And so much concerning Fionia: now let us passe to the other Islands. Under Fionia are contained ninety Islands situated toward the South, and the most of them habitable: the chiefe whereof are these: Langeland, Lawland. Falstre, Aria or Arr, Alsen, Tosing, and Aroe. Langeland is 28 miles in length. In it there is a Towne called Rudkeping, and Traneker a royall Castle, beside many villages, Parishes, and Noble-mens houses. Lawland is separated by the strait of Gronesand from Zeland, and by a small arme of the Sea from Falstre. It is so fruitfull in corne and filberd Nuts, that ship-loads are brought from thence into other Countries. It hath five townes which are these, Nistadt, Nasco, Togrop, Roth, and Marib: besides royall Castles, Noble-mens houses, many Parishes and Villages. Falstre is 16 miles long, and hath these two Cities Stubecopen, and Nicopen, which in regard of the pleasantlesse and beautie thereof is called the Naples of Denmarke Out of this Island neare a royall Pallace, there is a frequent passage into Germany, namely to Warnemund, which is 28 miles long. It furnishes neighbour countries every yeare with much corn. Arta being distant 6 miles frō Elysia, is cloathed with woods, and therefore assordeth much recreation for hunters, it hath three Parishes, and some Noble-mens houses, with the Towne & Castle of Coping. It belongs together with Elysia to the Dukedome of Sleswi•ke, and is under the government of the Duke thereof. Elisia or Alsa, commonly called Alsen, is an Island of a reasonable bignesse, for it is 16 miles in length, and 8 in breadth, being not farre distant from the Dukedome of Sleswicke, and looking toward the Bay die Flensburger Wick, it is parted by it from the first seat of the English. The Rantzovian Musaeum tells us that the Romans did call these Islanders Elisians. As also those who inhabit the next Island, Arians: which appellation or name they still retaine to this day, Ptolomie relateth, that the English were the ancient inhabitants of the Northerne Countries, by the Sea side: to which Tacitus addeth the Elisit, Arit, and the Mommy, whose names also are still used in the Islands Alsen, Arr, and Moen. There is a Towne in Alsen or Elisia called Sunderburg and a Castle of the same name, with other Townes, as Norborch, Osternholm, Die Holle, and Gammelgard. It hath thirteene populous Parishes, whence it can set forth many thousands of Souldiers. It is very wooddy, by reason whereof it affordeth Harts, and many kindes of wild beasts for hunting. It hath great store of Sea-fish and fresh-fish, and much wheat, and it is every where fit for feeding and pasturing of cattle. Tussing or Tosinga being the chiefe Isle among all the other Islands, lyeth neare unto a towne of Fionia called Swineburg, and is foure miles in length. In this Island besides Parishes, there is the Pallace of Kettrop, belonging to the Rosenkransians, and Rantzovians. Aroe is situated neare the Dukedome of Sleswicke where they passe to the Towne Alcens in Fionia by the Arsensian Bay, and hath foure Villages. There are also these Islands, Ramso, Endelo, Ebilo, Fenno, Boko, Brando, Toroe, Aggerins, Hellenis, Iordo, Birkholm, &c. Let so much suffice to have beene spoken concerning Fionia, and the Islands lying round about it. And now to conclude, I will here, rather then no where, adde unto the rest a Description of Huena or Ween seated in the Sound, in which is the Castle of Vraniburg, filled with many accurate and elaborate Astronomicall instruments, The middle of this Island, where this Castle standeth, hath the Pole elevated about 56 Degrees and 55, and is situate from the West 55 Degrees. It is in compasse 8160 paces, every pace being 5 foote, so that the whole circuit of it is equall unto two common German, 18 English miles. This Island being placed in the most famous strait of the whole Kingdome through which many ships saile out of the Easterne into the Westerne Sea: and on the contrarie with a gooly prospect hath in view many chiefe Townes of this Kingdome, which stands as it were round about it; in Zeland Hasnia, 12 miles distant from it South Southwest, also Helsinger, (where those ships that saile or passe by, do pay custome or tribute) and the Castle Cronaburg both distant from it on the Northwest 8 miles, Helsingburg which lies on the shoare of Scania, is as farre distant from it toward the North, and on the same shoare is Landskrone being foure miles from it: toward the East lyeth Lunda or Londen, which although it be not a Sea-towne, yet is but 16 miles distant from hence. And although the Island be not very great,* 1.13 yet no part of it is barren or unfruitfull, but produceth great store of fruit, and aboundeth with cattell, it bringeth forth Does, Hares, Cunnies,* 1.14 and Partridges in great plentie, and is very convenient for fishing. It hath a wood of Hasell trees, which are never worme-eaten, but hath no Dormise. Heretofore it was remarkable for foure Castles, whose names do yet remaine, Synderburg, which was seated on the Southerne shoare, Norburg on the opposite Northerne shoare. Karheside which stood toward the East side of the Island, and Hamer toward the West, the foundation of these foure Castles may be yet seene, but there are no ruines thereof remaining. This Island lyes very deepe in the Salt-sea, and yet it hath many fresh Rivers and Springs, among which there is one Spring that never freezeth with the violence of the Winters cold, a strange thing in these Countries.</blockquote> |
So much according to our Method concerning the Dukedome of Sleswicke and Holsatia: Fionia followes with the Isles lying round about it. Fionia,* 1.1 commonly called Fuynen is the chiefe of all other Isles lying in the Bay of Codonus from Zeland. It taketh its name from the beautie thereof, both in regard of the forme and situation.* 1.2 It is separated from the Continent of Denmarke, by so small and narrow a Sea flowing between them, called Middlesar, that it seemeth almost to cleave unto the Continent. This Iland as it looketh on the West toward Iutia, so on the East toward Zeland. It is 48 miles in length, and 16 in breadth. The Land (that I may omit the Sea which is full of fish) is a fruitfull soyle,* 1.3 and very profitable to the husbandman. For it aboundeth with such plentie of corne, that it sends store thereof yearly to other farre Countries, especially Wheate and Barley. And the ground, albeit it be very fruitfull and endowed with the gifts of Ceres, yet it is never dunged. Whence the Cities and Townes thereof are annoyed with filthy smells of the dung of cattle, which is cast out, being thereof no use, as Munster writeth. This Countrie aboundeth with so many Droves of Oxen,* 1.4 and breedeth such a number of Cowes and Horses, that it sends yearly into Germany great Heards and Droves of them. And in regard of the many woods which are in the Island, there is great store of game for hunting, as Harts, Hares, and Foxes. In the middle of it is the Metropolis or mother Citie called Ottania, or Ottonium commonly called Ottensel being a Bishops Seat,* 1.5 built as it appeares by many testimonies by Otto the first, about the time when he compeld King Herald to receive the Christian faith. This Citie is a famous Mart for the whole Island, in which about Epiphanie or Twelfetide there is a great meeting of the Islanders and especially the Nobles, as there is at Kile in Holsatia. Fionia is divided into five and twentie Prefectures, sixteene Cities, and six royall Castles. The other cities are in a manner equally distant from Ottonia, which is as it were the Center, and are so built of the Sea shoare, that in regard of the conveniencie of the Havens, they traffique not onely in the Balticke Sea, but also exercise their negotiations throughout all Swethland, and Norwey, Russia, the Low-countries, and Germany: the chiefe amongst them are Niburch, Swynburch, Foborch, Assens, Bowens, Middlefart, or Milvart, and Kettemynde, or Cortemund. The chiefe royall castles are Newburg, Hagenschow, Hinsgagel, Eschburg, and the Court of Rugard. Here are many Villages, and not a few Noble-mens houses. For this Island in regard of the pleasantnesse of the Climate, and fertilitie of the soyle is much esteemed by the Nobles. The sea doth yeeld great plentie of fish, and every Bay is so full thereof, that ships or boats being over set with them can hardly saile or row against them, which yet they do not take with any fishing engines, but with their hands. Those who dwell by the Sea side, besides tillage and husbandrie, doe use fishing, both which do furnish thē with all things necessarie for house-keeping. There are some places in this Island famous for warlike atchievements done not many yeares past.* 1.6 For there is a certaine mountaine called Ochenberg, not farre from the Castle Hagenschow, in which Iohn Rantzovius Knight and Generall of the field, for King Christian the third, in a great battle did overthrow Christopher Count of Oldenburg, in the yeare of Christ 1530, on the eleventh day of June, in which conflict were slaine two Counts, the one being the Count of Hage, the other of Tecklenburg, whose bodies being afterward taken up out of the field were brought to Ottonia, and buried in Canutus his Church about the same time also on the Mountaine Fauchburg, which is 4 mile distant from the Towne Ascens, some thousands of the Rebels were slaine and put to slight. This Countrie is adorned with many woods in which are great store of wild beasts. In the citie of Ottonium there are two famous Temples or Churches, one consecrated to Canutus,* 1.7 the other to Saint Francis. In this latter Iohn King of Denmarke, and his sonne Christierne, when they had spent 37 yeares in banishment and captivitie, were buried in the yeare 1559: about the other is a large and spacious court-yard, in which the King of Denmarke did renew his ancient league of friendship, with the Dukes of Holsatia and Sleswicke, An. 1580, they report also that the mother of King Christian the second did place up a certaine Altar here belonging to the Minorite Friars, a wonderfull curious piece of worke carved in wood, the like whereof is not to be found in Europe.* 1.8 Out of this Island from the Towne Ascen• it is eight miles into Iuitland or Iutia, and from Nyburge into Zeland is a passage of sixteene miles long through the Baltieke Sea, which is very dangerous, especially if the Sea be rough, for when the East Sea being increased by the receit of many rivers is thrust forward with a violent course, it often happens that contrarie windes do raise such mightie waves, & make the sea so unquiet, that Mariners are many times to great danger drawne in with these gulphlike windings of the waters & sometimes swallowed up by them. And so much concerning Fionia: now let us passe to the other Islands. Under Fionia are contained ninety Islands situated toward the South, and the most of them habitable: the chiefe whereof are these: Langeland, Lawland. Falstre, Aria or Arr, Alsen, Tosing, and Aroe. Langeland is 28 miles in length. In it there is a Towne called Rudkeping, and Traneker a royall Castle, beside many villages, Parishes, and Noble-mens houses. Lawland is separated by the strait of Gronesand from Zeland, and by a small arme of the Sea from Falstre. It is so fruitfull in corne and filberd Nuts, that ship-loads are brought from thence into other Countries. It hath five townes which are these, Nistadt, Nasco, Togrop, Roth, and Marib: besides royall Castles, Noble-mens houses, many Parishes and Villages. Falstre is 16 miles long, and hath these two Cities Stubecopen, and Nicopen, which in regard of the pleasantlesse and beautie thereof is called the Naples of Denmarke Out of this Island neare a royall Pallace, there is a frequent passage into Germany, namely to Warnemund, which is 28 miles long. It furnishes neighbour countries every yeare with much corn. Arta being distant 6 miles frō Elysia, is cloathed with woods, and therefore assordeth much recreation for hunters, it hath three Parishes, and some Noble-mens houses, with the Towne & Castle of Coping. It belongs together with Elysia to the Dukedome of Sleswi•ke, and is under the government of the Duke thereof. Elisia or Alsa, commonly called Alsen, is an Island of a reasonable bignesse, for it is 16 miles in length, and 8 in breadth, being not farre distant from the Dukedome of Sleswicke, and looking toward the Bay die Flensburger Wick, it is parted by it from the first seat of the English. The Rantzovian Musaeum tells us that the Romans did call these Islanders Elisians. As also those who inhabit the next Island, Arians: which appellation or name they still retaine to this day, Ptolomie relateth, that the English were the ancient inhabitants of the Northerne Countries, by the Sea side: to which Tacitus addeth the Elisit, Arit, and the Mommy, whose names also are still used in the Islands Alsen, Arr, and Moen. There is a Towne in Alsen or Elisia called Sunderburg and a Castle of the same name, with other Townes, as Norborch, Osternholm, Die Holle, and Gammelgard. It hath thirteene populous Parishes, whence it can set forth many thousands of Souldiers. It is very wooddy, by reason whereof it affordeth Harts, and many kindes of wild beasts for hunting. It hath great store of Sea-fish and fresh-fish, and much wheat, and it is every where fit for feeding and pasturing of cattle. Tussing or Tosinga being the chiefe Isle among all the other Islands, lyeth neare unto a towne of Fionia called Swineburg, and is foure miles in length. In this Island besides Parishes, there is the Pallace of Kettrop, belonging to the Rosenkransians, and Rantzovians. Aroe is situated neare the Dukedome of Sleswicke where they passe to the Towne Alcens in Fionia by the Arsensian Bay, and hath foure Villages. There are also these Islands, Ramso, Endelo, Ebilo, Fenno, Boko, Brando, Toroe, Aggerins, Hellenis, Iordo, Birkholm, &c. Let so much suffice to have beene spoken concerning Fionia, and the Islands lying round about it. And now to conclude, I will here, rather then no where, adde unto the rest a Description of Huena or Ween seated in the Sound, in which is the Castle of Vraniburg, filled with many accurate and elaborate Astronomicall instruments, The middle of this Island, where this Castle standeth, hath the Pole elevated about 56 Degrees and 55, and is situate from the West 55 Degrees. It is in compasse 8160 paces, every pace being 5 foote, so that the whole circuit of it is equall unto two common German, 18 English miles. This Island being placed in the most famous strait of the whole Kingdome through which many ships saile out of the Easterne into the Westerne Sea: and on the contrarie with a gooly prospect hath in view many chiefe Townes of this Kingdome, which stands as it were round about it; in Zeland Hasnia, 12 miles distant from it South Southwest, also Helsinger, (where those ships that saile or passe by, do pay custome or tribute) and the Castle Cronaburg both distant from it on the Northwest 8 miles, Helsingburg which lies on the shoare of Scania, is as farre distant from it toward the North, and on the same shoare is Landskrone being foure miles from it: toward the East lyeth Lunda or Londen, which although it be not a Sea-towne, yet is but 16 miles distant from hence. And although the Island be not very great,* 1.13 yet no part of it is barren or unfruitfull, but produceth great store of fruit, and aboundeth with cattell, it bringeth forth Does, Hares, Cunnies,* 1.14 and Partridges in great plentie, and is very convenient for fishing. It hath a wood of Hasell trees, which are never worme-eaten, but hath no Dormise. Heretofore it was remarkable for foure Castles, whose names do yet remaine, Synderburg, which was seated on the Southerne shoare, Norburg on the opposite Northerne shoare. Karheside which stood toward the East side of the Island, and Hamer toward the West, the foundation of these foure Castles may be yet seene, but there are no ruines thereof remaining. This Island lyes very deepe in the Salt-sea, and yet it hath many fresh Rivers and Springs, among which there is one Spring that never freezeth with the violence of the Winters cold, a strange thing in these Countries.</blockquote> |
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===1682. Cosmography and geography in two parts by Richard Blome. === |
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=== 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCX. Of Denmark, and the Provinces and Cities thereof. === |
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<blockquote>DANEMARK, which comprehendeth the Kingdoms of |
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*DANEMARK; whereof the principal parts are |
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**The Peninsula of JUTLAND, as it is divided into four Bishopricks and two Dutchies; to wit, |
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***Ripen, |
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****Ripen, |
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****Rolding. |
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***Arhusen, — Arhusen. |
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***Alborg, |
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****Alborg, |
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****Scagen. |
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***Wiborg, — Wiborg. |
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***Sleswick, |
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****Sleswick, |
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****Flensborg, |
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****Hussen, |
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****Hadersleben, |
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****Friderickstad, |
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****Sunderborg. |
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***Holstein, or Holsace, |
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****Kiel, |
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****Segeberg, |
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****Krempe, |
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****Meldorpe, |
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****Gluckstad, |
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****Lubeck, |
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****Hambourg, |
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****Borg in Femeren. |
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**Divers ISLES, the chief of which are |
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*** Seland, or Zeland, |
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****Cop•nhagen, |
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****R•schilt, |
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**** Elsenno•r, |
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****War•org. |
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*** Fuinen,— Otrensoe. |
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***Falster, Nicopen. |
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***Gotland, Visby. |
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***Osel,— Arensborg. |
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** The Coast of GOTHLAND; where are the Provinces of |
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*** Halland, |
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****Halland, |
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****Helmstad, |
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****La Holme. |
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***Bleckinge, |
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****Christianople, |
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****Christianstad, |
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****Elleholm. |
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***Sconen, or Scanja, |
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****Lunden, |
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**** Elsenborg, |
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****Landscron, |
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****Malbogen. |
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The Kingdom of DANEMARK, as it is composed of three Parts, to wit, |
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*The Peninsula of JUTLAND, or JUTIE, as it is divided in |
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**North JUTLAND; where are the Bishopricks of |
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***Ripen, |
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****Ripen, |
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****Kolding, |
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****Weel, |
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**** Warde, |
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****Rinkoping; |
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****Hostebro. |
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***Arthusen, |
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****Arthusen, |
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**** Kalla, |
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****Hersens, |
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****Randersen, |
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****Ebelto, |
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****Grimastad, |
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****Hobro. |
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***Albourg, with its parts of |
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****Thyland, — Albourg. |
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****Hanheret, Thystad. |
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****Morsee, Nycopin. |
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****Venyssel, |
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*****Selby, |
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*****Scagen, |
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***** Hirring. |
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***Wibourg, |
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****Wybourg, |
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****Lemwick, |
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****Holcker. |
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**South JUTLAND; where are the Dutchies of |
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***Sleswick, |
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****Sleswick, |
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****Hussen, |
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****Stenberg, |
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****Hadersleben, |
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****Flensborg, |
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****Gottrop, |
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****Ekelenford, |
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**** Appenrade, |
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****Frederickstad, |
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***Holstein, or Holsatia, with its parts of |
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****Holsatia, |
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*****Kiel, |
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*****Rendesborg, |
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*****Wilstet, |
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*****Nienmunster, |
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*****Borg en Femeren. |
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****Wagrie, |
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*****Lubeck, |
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***** Segeberg, |
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*****Odesloe, |
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*****Niestat, |
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*****Oldenborg. |
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****Stormarch, |
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*****Hambourg, |
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***** Krempe, |
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*****Bredenberg, |
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*****Gluckstad, |
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*****Tychenberg, |
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****Dilmarch, |
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*****Meldrop, |
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*****Heide, |
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*****Lunden. |
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*Divers Isles, |
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**About the BELT, and between the Lands of DENMARK, as |
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***Zeland, or Seland, |
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****Copenhagen, |
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****Roschilt, |
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****Elsenour, |
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****Warborg, |
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****Fredericksbourg, |
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****Ringstede, |
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****Holbeck, |
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****Slages, |
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****Corsroer, |
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****Nestwede. |
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*** Fuinen, or Fionie, |
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****Osell, |
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****Niborg, |
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****Swinborg, |
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****Kartemunde, |
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**** Woborg, |
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**** Assens, |
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****Bowens. |
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***Fimera, — Petersborne. |
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***Alsen, |
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****Osterholme, |
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****Gammelgard, |
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****Norbarch. |
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*** Tusinge, — Niburg. |
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***Huen, — Vramburg. |
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***Arroe. — Koping. |
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*** Longland, — Rudkoping. |
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*** Laland, |
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**** Maxcow, |
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****Rodby, |
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****Maribo. |
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***Falster, |
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****Nikoping, |
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****Stubekoping. |
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**In the BALTICK Sea, and between the Lands of SWEDEN; as |
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***Bornholme, |
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****Nex, |
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****Rattenby, |
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****Sunneckier. |
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***Gothland,— Visby, or Wisby. |
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***Oesel, — Arensborg. |
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*The Coast of GOTHLAND, or GOTHIE, to wit, |
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** WESTRO-GOTHLAND; where is the Province of Hallandis, |
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***Warborg, |
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***Lattolm, |
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***Helmstad, |
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***Falkenborg, |
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***Hallandia. |
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**OSTRO-GOTHLAND; where are the Provinces of |
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***Scania, or Sconen, |
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****Lunden, |
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****Helsinborg, |
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****Christiana, |
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****Malbogen, or Ellegeboges. |
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***Bleckinge, or Blekingea, |
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****Trelborg, |
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**** Usted, |
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****Malinogia, |
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**** Colmar, |
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****Christianople. |
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</blockquote><blockquote>THe Estates of DENMARK contain two Kingdoms, to wit, DENMARK and NORWAY. Denmark is between the Ocean and the Baltick Sea, composed of a Peninsula contiguous to Germany, and of a Coast contiguous to Sweden; and of divers Isles which are between the Peninsula and Coast; some likewise in the middle of the Baltick Sea, and near Livonia. It is scituate partly in the Northern Temperate Zone, and partly within the Artick Circle, extending from the 55th degree of Longitude, or the middle Parallel of the 10th Clime, where it joyneth to Germany as far as 71 degrees, where it is bounded by the Frozen Ocean, the longest day in the most Southern parts being 17 ¼ hours; but in the most Northern parts they have no Night for almost three Months: whereas on the other side, when the Sun is in the other Tropick; and most remote from them, they have no Day for the like time▪ This Country is very cold, and consequently not over fertil, nor affording good Fruits. The Commodities that this Kingdom affords are Fish, Hides, Tallow Furniture for Shipping, as Pitch, Tar, Cordage, Masts, &c. also Firr, Boards Wainscot, several sorts of Armour, &c. |
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*2.73The Inhabitants for the most part are of a good statute and complexion, very healthful, ingenious, and of a ready wit, very punctual in performing their Promises, proud and high conceited of their own worth, lovers of Learning, as may appear by those Famous men it hath bred, viz. Tycho Brahe, the great Mathematician; John Cluverus, the renowned Philosopher and Physitian; Godfrey Gottricus, that stout Warriour, who not only setled the Government of this Kingdom, but also shook the Realm of France; likewise Waldemare, Christiern the Second and Fourth; Canutus and Sueno, which two last were the Conquerors of England. They are great punishers of Offenders, especially Theft and Piracy; their Women are of a comly grace, very fair, and as fruitful in Children; discreet and sober. |
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The Peninsula called JƲITLAND, once Cimbrica Chersonesus,* 2.74 from the Cimbrians its ancient Inhabitants: it is divided into North and South Juitland. |
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North JƲITLAND is severed into the Bishopricks of Ripen, Arthusen, Albourg, and Wibourg. |
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*2.75RIPEN contains 30 Prefectures or Herets, (as they term them) 7 Cities or walled Towns, and 10 Castles. Its chief places are 1. Ripen, seated near the German Ocean, the chief place of the Diocess, and dignified with an Episcopal See: 2. Kolding, seated on a Creek of the Baltick Sea; 3. Weel, 4. Warde, &c. |
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*2.76ARTHƲSEN containeth 31 Prefecture, 7 Cities or walled Towns, and 5 Castles. Its chief places are 1. Arthusen, seated on the Baltick Sea, having a commodious and well frequented Port, and dignified with an Episcopal See. 2. Kalla, a strong place, seated in a large Bay, reaching two Dutch miles to the high Hill of Elemanberg; opposite to which lie the Isles of Hilgones, Tuen, Samsoe, Hiarneo, and Hiolm, &c. 3. Horsens, 4. Randersen, 5. Ebelto, and 6. Hobro. |
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*2.77ALBOƲRG, which is divided into four parts, viz. Thyland, whose chief Town is Albourg, seated on the Bay of Limford, which, opening into the Baltick Sea, extendeth it self through the main Land, almost to the German Ocean. 2. Hanebert, on the North-west of Limford Bay, containeth 4 Prefectures, and hath for its chief place Thystad. 3. Morsee, lying on the Ocean, contains 3 Prefectures, the Isle of Ageroe, the Town of Nicopin, and the Castle of Lunstead: and 4. Vensyssel, according to Mercator, Vandalorum sedes, or the Seat of the Vandals, contains 6 Prefectures, 3 Towns, and 1 Castle, viz. Selby, Cagen, and Hirring. |
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*2.78WIBOƲRG contains 16 Prefectures, the Isles of Egholm, Hansholm, Bodum, Idgen, Cisland, and Ostholm; also it hath 3 Castles, and as many Cities or walled Towns; viz. 1. Wibourg, dignified with an Episcopal See, and the Courts of Judicature for both the Juitlands. The point of Scagen, or Scean, ends this Peninsula towards the North. 2. Lemwick, and 3. Holcker. |
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South JƲITLAND is divided into the Dukedoms of Sleswick and Holstein. |
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SLESWICK, a Country for the most part level, * 2.79 enriched with fertil Fields both for Corn and Pasturage; it is very well provided with good Bays on the Baltick, which are found commodious for Merchants. The chief places in this Dukedom are, 1. Sleswick, seated on the Slea, which falls into the Baltick, where it hath a commodious and well frequented Haven; it is a fair Town, the chief of the Dukedom, and honoured with an Episcopal See. 2. Hussen, seated on the German Ocean: 3. Sternberg, the ordinary residence of the Governour for the King of Denmark; 4. Hadersleben, seated on a navigable In-let of the Baltick, and fortified with a strong and fair Castle: 5. Flensborg, seated on the Baltick amongst high Mountains, having a Port so commodious and deep, that Ships do lade and unlade close to their Houses: and 6. Gottrop, where there is a strong Fort belonging to the Duke of Sleswick, seated at the end of a large Bay of the Baltick, of note for the Custom-house or Tole-booth there, erected for Cattle, sent out of these parts into Germany. |
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*2.80HOLSTEIN, or HOLSATIA, a woody, low and Marshy Country; is severed into the Parts of Holsatia especially so called, Wagrie, Stormarch, and Dilmarch. |
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HOLSTEIN, or HOLSATIA, hath for its chief places 1. Kiel, seated on a navigable Arm of the Baltick, where it hath a large Haven, being a Town of a good Trade. 2. Rendesborg, said to be the strongest Town in all the Province; 3. Wilsted, and 4. Nienmunster. |
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WAGRIE hath for its chief places, 1. Lubeck, an Imperial and free City, enjoying the priviledges of a Hans-Town; it is pleasantly seated on the confluence of the Billew, and on the North-banks of the Trane, severing it from Germany, and empty themselves into the Baltick, being capable to receive Ships of a great burthen, which they lade and unlade at Tremuren, the Maritim Port, at about a miles distance; it is built on all sides upon a rising Hill, on the Summit whereof is placed a fair and beautiful Church called St. Maries, being the Cathedral, from whence, on an easie descent, there are Streets which lead to all the Gates of the City, which afford a fair prospect to the Eye; besides which, it is adorned with 9 other Churches, one of which being a decayed Monastery, is converted to an Armory to keep their Ammunition for War. It is about 6 miles in compass, encircling within its Walls divers fair and uniform Streets, beautified with good Brick-buildings, is very populous, and well inhabited by Citizens and Merchants, who drive a considerable Trade on the Baltick Seas. But this City, as also Hamburgh, is esteemed rather part of Lower Saxony in Germany, where I have also treated of them. 2. Segeberg. 3. Odesloe, 4. Niestad, and 5. Oldenborg. |
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STORMARCH hath for its chief places, 1. Hambourg, an ancient City built by the Saxons, since made an Imperial City, enjoying the Priviledges of a Hans-Town, seated on the North-banks of the Albis, which divides it from Germany, of which it is reckoned a part or member, and there treated of in the description of the Lower Saxony, to which I refer the Reader. 2. Krempe, seated on a River of the same name, which emptieth it self into the Store; a strong and well fortified Town, being reckoned for one of the Keys of the Kingdom. 3. Bredenberg, a Town of great strength, belonging to the Rantzoves: 4. Gluckstade, seated on a Bay or Creek of the German Ocean, and therefore well fortified, to command the passage up the Elbe: and 5. Tychenberg, seated on the Elbe, being so well fortified, that it is now held the strongest Town in this Kingdom. |
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DILMARCH or DITMARCH, hath for its chief places, 1. Meldrop, seated on the Sea; a place of some account, and the chief of the Province. 2. Heide, and 3. Lunden, a Haven Town, seated on the Eider, which rising in this Peninsula, here emptieth it self into the Ocean. |
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The BALTICK ISLES. |
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THese Islands which are between Juitland and the Coast, and farther in the Baltick Sea, are in number 35, and are so called, as being dispersed in these Seas. The Baltick Sea begins at the narrow passage called the Sound, and interlacing the Countries of Denmark, Poland, Germany, and Sweden, extendeth to Livonia and Lithuania. The reason (according to the Opinion of many) why this Sea, which is so large, doth neither ebb nor flow, may be as well from its Northern scituation, whereby the Celestial influences have the less predominancy, as also from the narrowness of the Streight, which receiveth the Ocean. The chief of these Isles I have set down in the Geographical Table of this Kingdom, of which a word or two, and first with Zeland. |
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ZELAND, anciently Codanonia, from the Codani its Inhabitants; * 2.81 the Isle is very fertil, the greatest and of most importance of any in the Baltick, to the King of Denmark, as lying not above three miles from the main Land of Scandia, which narrow Streight is called the Sound, through which all Ships must pass that have any Trade into the Baltick, all paying to the said King a certain Toll, according to the bigness or Bills of Lading, by which ariseth a great Revenue unto him; and for the security of this passage there are built two exceeding strong Castles, the one in this Isle, called Cronenberg, and the other in Scandia, called Hilsemberg, of which more anon. In this Isle are 7 strong Castles, and 13 Cities or walled Towns; the chief of which are 1. Copenhagen, or Haffen, the chief of the Isle, seated near the Sea, having a commodious Port; it is built orbicular, of a good strength, being defended by a powerful Castle; its Houses are but meanly built, yet it hath a spacious Market-place, and is dignified with the residence of the King for the Winter season; whose Palace is built of Freestone quadrangular, but of no great splendor, as also with the only Ʋniversity in the Kingdom. 2. Elsenour, seated on the Sea side; of it self but a poor Village, were it not for the great resort of Sea-men in their passage through the Sound into the Baltick, this being the place where they pay their Toll; and in this Village is the stately and well fortified Castle of Cronenburg, built in the very Ocean, and bravely resisting the fury of its Waves; now the ordinary residence of the King, being a pleasant prospect into the Sea; on the South-side of this Castle is a large and commodious Road for Shipping. 3. Roschilt, once a rich City, now only famous for being the Sepulchre of the Danish Kings, where, in the Cathedral Church, they have their Tombs; it is also dignified with the See of a Bishop. 4. Fredericksbourg, a Fortress built in a pleasant Plain, often visited by the King in his retirement, where he hath a delightful House seated in a Park. 5. Warborg, 6. Ringstede, 7. Holbeck, 8. Slages, &c. |
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FƲINEN, or FIONIE, seated betwixt Zeland and Juitland,* 2.82 and almost joyning to the Main-land; it is of a fextil Soil, and pleasant scituation, being in length about 12 Dutch miles, and 4 in breadth. Its chief places are 1. Osel, or Ottonium, so called from Otho the Great, who founded here an Episcopal See, seated in the midst of the Isle, from which the other Towns are of an equal distance, which renders it very commodious for Traffick; it is not large, having but two Churches, and its Buildings are neat and ornamental enough. 2. Niborg, 3. Swinborg, 4. Kartemunde, 5. Woborg, and 6. Ascens; all, or most of them seated on some convenient Creek or Haven. |
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FIMERA, a very fertil and well peopled Isle; * 2.83 and here it was that Tycho Brache, the famous Mathematician, built an Artificial Tower, in which are (or were) many rare Mathematical, Instruments; its chief place is Petersborne, of some importance to the King of Denmark. |
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ALSEN, a small Isle appertaining to the Dukedom of Sleswick;* 2.84 is very populous, contains 13 Parishes, and 4 Towns, viz. Osterholme, Gammelgard, Norbarch, and Sunderburg; dignified with the residence of the Duke of Sleswick. |
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TƲSINGE, a very small Isle, * 2.85 and of no great account by reason of its dangerous scituation; its chief place is Niburg. |
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ARROE, a small Isle belonging to the Duke of Sleswick;* 2.86 it contains three Towns, the chief of which is Koping, fortified with a Castle so called. |
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LONGLAND, an indifferent long Isle, but not very broad; * 2.87 its chief place is Rudkoping, of some account. |
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LALAND, not far distant from Zeland; abounds in Corn and Chesuuts,* 2.88 fraighting therewith many Vessels yearly; it is very populous for the bigness, contains 3 Towns, viz. Maxcow, Rodby, and Maribo; besides a great many Villages and some Castles. |
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FALSTER, a small Isle, fertil in Corn, seated near to Laland;* 2.89 its chief places are Nikoping, of a pleasant scituation; and Stubekoping. |
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In the Baltick, and between the Lands of Sweden, are also several Isles the chief amongst which are BORNHOLME,* 2.90 seated not far from Gothland, an Isle very fertil, feeding abundance of Cattle: It hath many goo• Towns and Villages, the chief of which are, Nex, Rottonby, and Suomneckier. |
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GOTHLAND,* 2.91 an indifferent large Isle, in form round and narrow, no• in the possession of the Swedes: It yields white Marble, excellent for building; the City of Wisby, seated in the midst of the Isle, was once so famous fo• Traffick, that it gave Maritim Laws to the Baltick Sea. |
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That which the King of Denmark possesses, as particularly belonging to tha• Crown, on the Coast of Scandinavia, is part of the ancient Gothland; th• most Southern of which that we are now treating of, is divided into Westro-Gothland and Ostro-Gothland; which are again subdivided into the Provinc• of Hallandia, which takes up Westro-Gothland; and into the Provinces o• Scania and Blecking, which takes up Ostro Gothland; and first of Hallandia. |
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HALLANDIA,* 2.92 now in the possession of the Swedes; this Country o• Province for fertility of Soil, sweetness of Air, store of Fish, plenty of Lea• and Brass Mines, and thickness of Towns and Villages, which are well inhabited, is not inferiour to any. Its chief places are 1. Warborg, seated on th• Sea-shoar, and defended by a strong Castle, built on the summit of a Hill, s• that it hath a great command over the Country. 2. Laholm, 3. Helmst••▪ 4. Falkenborg, and 5. Hallandia, or Katterop. |
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SCANIA,* 2.93 or SCONEN, hath on the North Hallandia, and on all othe• parts, the Sea; also now in the Swedes possession: It is about 70 miles long and 48 broad; the pleasantest Country in all Denmark, most abundant i• Fruits, and richest in Merchandize, and on the Sea-side are sometimes such great sholes of Herrings, that they are found troublesom to Vessels. Its chie• places are 2. Lunden, an Inland City, dignified with the sole or Metropolita• Archbishop of Denmark; the chiefest beauty in this City is the Cathedra• Church, a magnificent Structure, beautified with excellent pieces of Art, th• chief whereof are the Clock and the Dial: the Clock being so composed b• Artificial Engines, that whensoever it striketh, two Horsemen give one another as many blows as the Clock striketh times: also upon the opening of 〈◊〉 Door there is represented a Theatre, where the Virgin Mary is seated on 〈◊〉 Throne with Christ in her Arms, to whom the three Kings, with their sever• Trains, come in order, and with reverence present their Gifts to her, during which time two Trumpeters continually sound. And next the Dial, wher• the year, month, week, day, and hour of the day throughout the year, as also the motions of the Sun and Moon through each degree of the Zodiack; th• moveable and fixed Feasts, &c. are to be distinctly seen, being neatly set for•• in variety of delightful Colours. 2. Helsinborg, fortified with an impregnabl• Castle, and one of the Forts defending the Sound: 3. Christiana, a place 〈◊〉 great strength; and 4. Malbogen, a Port-Town, opposite to Copenhagen. |
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BLECKLINGE,* 2.94 also belonging to the Swedes, hath on the East an• South the Baltick Sea: It is a Mountainous and barren Country, and hat• for its chief places 1. Malinogia, the Birth-place of the famous Mathematicia• Gaspar Bartholinus, who was said to be the inventer and maker of the afore said Clock and Dial. 2. Colmar, an important Fortress against the Swedes until they gained the Province. |
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The Soil of Denmark is naturally better for Pasture than Tillage, and feed such multitude of Oxen, that at least 50000 are said to be yearly sent hence t• Germany. Their other Commodities are Fish, Tallow, Furniture for Shipping Armour, Ox-hides, Buck-skins, Wainscot, Fir-wood, Furrs, Pipe-staves Copper, Wheat, Rye, &c.</blockquote> |
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===1685. Geographia universalis: the present state of the whole world by Pierre Duval.=== |
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<blockquote>Of Denmark. |
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THE Danes make the Name of their Country come from Dan, one of the Successors of Noah. They make all their Kings to descend from him to Christian the Fifth, now Reigning, Grandson of Christian the Fourth, who had the happiness to sway the Scepter above sixty Years. The King of Denmark commands Countries of vast extent, which for the most part are cold, by reason of their Situation towards the North, full of Mountains and Woods, and Ice and Snow. Of this Number are the Kingdom of Norway, Greenland, the Isles of Island and of Fero. Towards the North of America, there be some Lands which bear the Name of New-Denmark: Some Fortresses in Guinea, Krankebar in Coromandel, in the East-Indies, acknowledg subjection to his Majesty of Denmark. What is particularly comprehended under the Name of Denmark, is the best inhabited, the finest and the most fertile. It is an Hereditary Kingdom since the Year 1660. before, it was Elective; the Nobility being now stript of the Prerogative it formerly possessed. The King of Denmark styles himself Count of Oldembourg and Delmenhorst, as the Eighth King of that Family, into which the Crown of Denmark came in the Year 1448. by the Election of Christian I. He is now in possession of it, and caused to be built there, in the Year 1681. a new City, with a Sea-Port, under the Name of Christiana. The Opinion of Luther is followed in Denmark since the Reign of King Frederiek, Elected in the Year 1523. There is no great Trade drove in Denmark, but there is a fine Revenue arising from the Customs which the Merchandizes pay, that pass through the Streight of the Sound, the Key of the Baltick-Sea. This Streight is a Mile in breadth, and the Course which the Ships there steer, with the most safety and conveniency, is nearer Cronembourg, than Elsenbourg, which belongs to the Crown of Sueden. This Revenue is no longer so considerable, since the Suedes do not pay there now what they did formerly: and it would be less, if the design was brought about, that has been entertain'd, of joyning the Baltick Sea to the Elve, by the Lake of Swerin, if the transportation of Commodities be continued by Land from Hambourg to Lubeck, and if the Elector of Brandenbourg brings to perfection the Chanel, which he has begun at Mulras, for the transporting the Merchandizes of Poland and Silesia, from the Oder into the Elve. Ships of ordinary Bulk, which take their way through the Streight of the Belt, cast Anchor before Nibourg, and there pay the Impost. This Streight is broader, but not so deep as that of the Sound, by which means the Sea is there very rough: the great Ships meet with several Islands there, and do not willingly steer their Course that way, which they take more directly and more conveniently through the Sound. The King of Denmark raises also a great Revenue from the Cattel of his Dominions, which afford 'em both very fat and in great plenty. The Germans carry away from thence every Year above fifty thousand Oxen into their own Country; Other Foreigners go into Denmark to buy Horses. Such abundance is there of Deer, that three or four hundred are sometimes killed, in one Chace alone; the Danes are us'd to salt and barrel 'em up, for the victualling, as they say, the King's Ships: the hunting of those Creatures is commonly perform'd in Chariots, or a sort of running Waggons, by reason these Machines do not fright away the Deer. |
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The Ports of Denmark are the Peninsula of Jutland, and the Islands near the Streight of the Belt: Schonen was yielded up to the Crown of Sueden by the late Treaties of Peace. Jutland was the abode of Cimbres, who have made Conquest in most of the Regions of Europe, and who, before they were defeated by Marius, gave furious Alarums to the Romans. There is somewhat Martial found at this day in the Danish Ladies; they love Hunting, and receive at Table, rather than in their Chambers, those persons who make 'em visits. |
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In Jutland there be four Diocesses towards the North, Ripen, Arhusen, Alborg, Viborg; two Dutchies towards the South, Sleswick and Holstein. Those who inhabit near the Coast are at small Charges in making their Houses, for that the Wind does often carry there such drifts of Sand, as to constrain 'em to get out at the top of their Houses. Kolding is the place of Custom for the Cattel: Frederic-Ode, which is now called Frederic, for the rendring the termination of it the more different from that of Frederick-Ohrt in Holstein, is in so important a situation, that Charles Gustavus, King of Sueden, having taken it in the late Wars, had then the means of making his Army pass over the Ice, into all the Neighbouring Islands, and go give the Alarum to Copenhagen; which was an Action as bold as that never the like was heard of; this Prince made the Cavalry march and lead the Artillery over great Arms of the Sea, where before a Man on foot would have been afraid of venturing himself: True it is, that formerly some Battels have been fought there upon the Ice, but commonly the War was made, in those Parts, by Land in Winter, and by Sea in Summer. |
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The Dutchy of Sleswick was the ancient abode of the English: It belongs to the Duke of Holstein, who has his Residence at Gottorp, and holds of the Crown of Denmark. The City of Sleswick has the remains of the Re-intrenchments which were made there, at divers times, to hinder entrance into the Peninsula. One of the late Dukes of Holstein, caused Frederickstadt to be built upon the Eider, with design of setling there the Guild-Trade: He sent, in the Year 1633. for that purpose, a signal Embassie into Russia and Persia; whereof we have both a fine and an exact Relation, drawn up by Olearius, Secretary of the Embassie. Holstein, otherwise Holsatia, belongs to the King of Denmark, and to the Duke of Holstein, who have hitherto done Homage for it to the Emperor, as Fief of the Empire, and have had alternately the administration of Justice, the Session in the Assemblies of the Empire, and in all the Rights of Regality. By the Peace of the Empire with Sueden, Protection is granted the Duke against the King of Denmark, which was of no use to him in the late Wars; and he was only re-established in his Dominions by the Peace of Nimmighen. His Riches consist in the Fishery, and in the Transportation of Swine, which are fatned in the Woods. Some Lands, in this Country, bring forth for three years together, the three years following they are covered with Water, by the means of Ponds that are made to overflow: The Principal Town is Riel, which is near the Port of Christianpreis, which was Fortified, and, near which, has lately been built the Fortress of Frederick-Ohrt. |
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The greatest Isles of Denmark are Zealand and Fionia. Copenhagen, in Zealand, is a Town of great Commerce, the usual abode of the King. It has a fine Castle-Royal, good Fortifications, which afforded its Inhabitants the means of repulsing the Suedes in the late Wars. It has also one of the finest Arsenals of Europe, wherein is kept a Celestial Globe, of six foot Diameter, made by Tycho-Brahe, the famous Mathematician, who made curious observations in the Castle of Ʋranibourg, in the Isle of Vren. Ʋranibourg is really the pleasantest Situated in the World. Besides the Prospect they have from thence, of the Royal-City, of the two Coasts of Zealand, and of Schonen, they have a full view of all the Ships which pass and repass the Sound from the one Sea to the other. Roskild is the Mausoleum of the Kings. Elsenour is near the strong Castle of Cronembourg, whose Fortifications have lately been augmented. |
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The Isle of Fionia is the Appennage of the Prince of Denmark. Its City of Ottensec was the place of holding the General Assemblies of the Kingdom, which, since the Year 1660. are to be held at Copenhagen. |
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The Isle of Bornholm was yielded to the Crown of Sueden by the last Treaty of Peace; since which, the Danes have given, in Exchange of that Island, an equivalent, by the Propriety of several Lords in Schonen. |
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Norway possesses the Western part of the great Peninsula of Scandinovia, whereof Sueden makes the Eastern: A long ledg of Hills, which divide 'em into two, leaving Norway towards the Ocean, Sueden towards the Baltick-Sea. From hence they Transport Whale-Oyl, dry'd Fish, called Stock-Fish, abundance of Timber for the building of Ships, for the making of Masts and Sail-Yards. Its Coast, though of a vast extent, has few good Harbours, by reason of the small Islands, Rocks and Shelves, wherewith they are environed. The Gulph of Maclstroon is also said to swallow up the Ships which approach it. What is towards the Pole, is full of Forests and of Mountains, which have some Mines of Iron and of Copper. In the Year 1646. near Opslo, was a Mine of Gold discovered, which gave the Inhabitants occasion to Publish abroad, That they had the Northern-Indies; this advantage lasted but as long as the Mine, which was afterwards quickly at an end, by over-much working. |
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This Kingdom has five Governments, with as many Castles, Bahus, Aggerhus, Barghenhus, Dronthem, Vardhus. That of Bahus, with a Castle of the same Name, upon a Rock, was yielded to the Suedes by the late Peace. Berghen is the best City, the Residence of the Vice-roy, with the new Fortress Bourg, and a Sea-Port, where the Ships do easily touch, and are safe from all Winds, by the means of high Mountains wherewith it is surrounded. The Merchants of the Anseatick Towns have their Magazines. Dronthem, the abode of the ancient Kings of Norway, is very much decayed: It has still the Title of an Arch-Bisho prick, with the remains of one of the Finest and most Magnificent Churches in the North. Ships are secure in that Harbour, but have occasion for good Pilots to bring 'em in. The other Principal Havens, of this Kingdom, are in the Western part. In some Countries of this Region, is Bread made of the flower of Barley and Oats, which they bake between two hollow Flints; this Bread will keep, as they say, thirty or forty years. The Norwegians are little subject to discourses, of such a constitution, that when they are in a Feaver, a slice of a Gammon of Bacon does 'em more good than a new-laid Egg; the inclination of several of them to Sorcery, makes 'em have the reputation of selling Winds to Saylors. |
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Finmarck, which makes part of Lapland, advances into the cold Zone, so as the day and night last there seven Months together: The Inhabitants of this Country have nothing in property, they accomodate themselves with the first place they like, now in one place, to morrow in another. They live on their Fishing and their Hunting, and only pay the Tribute of some Skins to the King of Denmark; they carry their Fish to sell at Berg. The Castle of Wardhus, with a Burough of three hundred Houses, the most Northern of all our Continent, is in the midst of a small Island, where it serves to exact some Customs, from those who go to Trade by the Ocean, at Arch-Angel in Muscovy. Its Port is in the Western part of the Island, which is separated from the Continent by a Streight of a quarter of a League in breadth, where there is passage for Ships. Its Neighbourhood is not subject to Ice, so as are the other parts of that Sea.</blockquote> |
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=== 1638. The merchants mappe of commerce wherein by Lewes Roberts.=== |
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<blockquote>Denmark hath on the East Mare Balticum, on the West the German Ocean, on the North Sweden, on the South Germany. |
<blockquote>Denmark hath on the East Mare Balticum, on the West the German Ocean, on the North Sweden, on the South Germany. |
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In Bornholmia is a principal City Bornholm. |
In Bornholmia is a principal City Bornholm. |
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In Fimeria is found the City of Peterborn, and is the Island in which that famous Mathematician Ticho Brabe built an artificial Tower, wherein he studied the Mathematicks, and wherein are still reserved many of his rare Mathematical Instruments. |
In Fimeria is found the City of Peterborn, and is the Island in which that famous Mathematician Ticho Brabe built an artificial Tower, wherein he studied the Mathematicks, and wherein are still reserved many of his rare Mathematical Instruments. |
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*Scandia is the last part of this Kingdom lying part of it on this side, and part beyond the Artick Circle, so that the longest day in the more Northern part is about three months, the Kingdoms of Norway, Swetland, and part of Denmark; the part of it belonging to Denmark is divided into three Provinces, 1 Halandia, 2 Schona, and Blesida. |
*Scandia is the last part of this Kingdom lying part of it on this side, and part beyond the Artick Circle, so that the longest day in the more Northern part is about three months, the Kingdoms of Norway, Swetland, and part of Denmark; the part of it belonging to Denmark is divided into three Provinces, 1 Halandia, 2 Schona, and Blesida. |
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In Scania is the City of Londis a fair Haven, Falsgerbode and the Castle of Elsimbourg, one of the Keys of the Sound before mentioned; and the Seas are here said sometimes so to abound with Herrings, that Ships are scarce able with wind and Oar to break through them; and the Country is the pleasantest of all Denmark. |
In Scania is the City of Londis a fair Haven, Falsgerbode and the Castle of Elsimbourg, one of the Keys of the Sound before mentioned; and the Seas are here said sometimes so to abound with Herrings, that Ships are scarce able with wind and Oar to break through them; and the Country is the pleasantest of all Denmark. |
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In Blesida is found the City of Malmogia, and the strong Castle of Colmar against the Sweedlande••. The principal Trade of this Kingdom is contained in Copenhagen and Elsinour, therefore under the title of these two I will comprehend the Traffick of this Kingdom.</blockquote> |
In Blesida is found the City of Malmogia, and the strong Castle of Colmar against the Sweedlande••. The principal Trade of this Kingdom is contained in Copenhagen and Elsinour, therefore under the title of these two I will comprehend the Traffick of this Kingdom.</blockquote><blockquote>COPENHAGEN is the Seat of the Kings of Denmark in Winter, and may be interpreted the Merchants Haven, on the East-side is the Kings Palace or Castle, which bordereth on the Sea shore, where the Haven is found to be, the Sea being not far distant from the North side thereof: the City is of a round form, affording little beauty, as being but meanly built of wood and clay, and the Castle of stone. Here are found some Merchants, yet for the mostipart of no great eminence: for the Country affordeth no rich commodities that may allure others thither, or serve to be transported to other regions, whereby a gain may be expected. |
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=== 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXI. Of Copenhagen, and the Trade thereof. === |
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<blockquote>COPENHAGEN is the Seat of the Kings of Denmark in Winter, and may be interpreted the Merchants Haven, on the East-side is the Kings Palace or Castle, which bordereth on the Sea shore, where the Haven is found to be, the Sea being not far distant from the North side thereof: the City is of a round form, affording little beauty, as being but meanly built of wood and clay, and the Castle of stone. Here are found some Merchants, yet for the mostipart of no great eminence: for the Country affordeth no rich commodities that may allure others thither, or serve to be transported to other regions, whereby a gain may be expected. |
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The Monies of this Kingdom commonly current is the Dollar, and shilling; two Danish shillings make one Lubeck shilling, and 66 Danish shillings accounted for a Rix Dollar, which is five shillings Sterling. |
The Monies of this Kingdom commonly current is the Dollar, and shilling; two Danish shillings make one Lubeck shilling, and 66 Danish shillings accounted for a Rix Dollar, which is five shillings Sterling. |
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Their exchanges are here practised by the Rix Dollar above mentioned, the common current Coin of these Countries. |
Their exchanges are here practised by the Rix Dollar above mentioned, the common current Coin of these Countries. |
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Their Measures and Weights I will briefly observe by themselves, and therefore hasten to Elsinour.</blockquote><blockquote>ELSINOƲR, of it self is but a poor Village, but much frequented by Sea-men by reason of his neighbourhood to that straight Sea called the Sound, where the King of Denmark hath laid so great Impositions upon all Ships and Goods coming out or going into the Baltick Sea, as this sole profit surpasseth far all the Revenues of his Kingdom: the strong Castle of Cronburg lies in this Village upon the mouth of this straight, to which on the other side of this narrow Sea in the Kingdom of Norway, another Castle is opposite, called Elsburg, which two are the keepers of this Straight, that no Ship can pass in, or come out of the Baltick Sea without their leave; and consequently without due payment of this Imposition. On the South side of Cronburg Castle is the largest Road for Ships, toward the Baltick Sea, where the King is said to have his lodgings, which cannot choose but be a delectable prospect to all men, but especially to him: for Ships go in and out here by Fleets of a hundred, and he is certain, that none do pass either way but according to their burthen and loading, adds somewhat to his treasury. The Haven is able to contain a great Fleet, for it hath Cronburg Castle on the North side, the Castle of Elsburg on the East side, and Seeland, the chief Island of the Kingdom on the West side, and the Island Fimeria or Whern on the South side, in which I noted before, that Tycho Brahe, the samous Mathematician, had his residence. The Danes conceive this Island to be of such importance, as they have a Fable. That Henry the seventh of England offered for the possession of it, as much Scarlet Cloth as would cover the same, with a Rose Noble at the corner of each cloth. If any such offer were made, doubtless the wildom and judgment of that Prince, knew how to make that Island being fortified, peradventure to return him his charges again with good Interest; but it is not credible, by reason that it cannot benefit a foreign Prince, whole Territories heth out of the Sound, by which he must needs enter, those before mentioned Castles commanding the entrance, though it might prove more beneficial to some Prince bordering upon the Baltick Seas, and to whom the Sea is open for passage.</blockquote> |
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Their Measures and Weights I will briefly observe by themselves, and therefore hasten to Elsinour.</blockquote> |
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=== 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXII. Of Elsinour, and the Trade thereof. === |
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<blockquote>ELSINOƲR, of it self is but a poor Village, but much frequented by Sea-men by reason of his neighbourhood to that straight Sea called the Sound, where the King of Denmark hath laid so great Impositions upon all Ships and Goods coming out or going into the Baltick Sea, as this sole profit surpasseth far all the Revenues of his Kingdom: the strong Castle of Cronburg lies in this Village upon the mouth of this straight, to which on the other side of this narrow Sea in the Kingdom of Norway, another Castle is opposite, called Elsburg, which two are the keepers of this Straight, that no Ship can pass in, or come out of the Baltick Sea without their leave; and consequently without due payment of this Imposition. On the South side of Cronburg Castle is the largest Road for Ships, toward the Baltick Sea, where the King is said to have his lodgings, which cannot choose but be a delectable prospect to all men, but especially to him: for Ships go in and out here by Fleets of a hundred, and he is certain, that none do pass either way but according to their burthen and loading, adds somewhat to his treasury. The Haven is able to contain a great Fleet, for it hath Cronburg Castle on the North side, the Castle of Elsburg on the East side, and Seeland, the chief Island of the Kingdom on the West side, and the Island Fimeria or Whern on the South side, in which I noted before, that Tycho Brahe, the samous Mathematician, had his residence. The Danes conceive this Island to be of such importance, as they have a Fable. That Henry the seventh of England offered for the possession of it, as much Scarlet Cloth as would cover the same, with a Rose Noble at the corner of each cloth. If any such offer were made, doubtless the wildom and judgment of that Prince, knew how to make that Island being fortified, peradventure to return him his charges again with good Interest; but it is not credible, by reason that it cannot benefit a foreign Prince, whole Territories heth out of the Sound, by which he must needs enter, those before mentioned Castles commanding the entrance, though it might prove more beneficial to some Prince bordering upon the Baltick Seas, and to whom the Sea is open for passage.</blockquote> |
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=== 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXIII. Weights in general of Denmark reduced to that of London. === |
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<blockquote>Now for the Weights of this Kingdom, they are found to differ in many places; so many as have come to my hand, I have reduced to the suttle hundred of London, which suttle hundred is found to produce in these Cities of Traffick and some others adjoyning, |
<blockquote>Now for the Weights of this Kingdom, they are found to differ in many places; so many as have come to my hand, I have reduced to the suttle hundred of London, which suttle hundred is found to produce in these Cities of Traffick and some others adjoyning, |
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{| class="wikitable" |
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|Lubeck |
|Lubeck |
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|92 |
|92 |
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|Melvin |
| Melvin |
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|120 |
|120 |
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|Revel |
|[[Revel]] |
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|116 |
|116 |
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|Rhiga |
|[[Rhiga]] |
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|116 |
|116 |
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|108 |
|108 |
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|Stralsont |
| [[Stralsont]] |
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|88 |
|88 |
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|Bergen Norway |
| Bergen Norway |
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|92 |
| 92 |
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Where it is to be noted, that generally in Copenhagen, and in most parts of Denmark, they hare a great and small hundred, one of 112 pound to the hundred, and another of 120 pound to the hundred, accounted twelve stone of ten pound to the stone: Also they have a Skip-pound, 32 stone of ten pound the stone, or 20 Lispound of 16 mark pound is a Skip-pound, and 20 times 16 pound is 320 pound,</blockquote> |
Where it is to be noted, that generally in Copenhagen, and in most parts of Denmark, they hare a great and small hundred, one of 112 pound to the hundred, and another of 120 pound to the hundred, accounted twelve stone of ten pound to the stone: Also they have a Skip-pound, 32 stone of ten pound the stone, or 20 Lispound of 16 mark pound is a Skip-pound, and 20 times 16 pound is 320 pound,</blockquote><blockquote>As I have done with their Weights, so I will proceed with their Measures, reducing then to the hundred yards English, and makes in |
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=== 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXIV. Measures in general of Denmark reduced to London. === |
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<blockquote>As I have done with their Weights, so I will proceed with their Measures, reducing then to the hundred yards English, and makes in |
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|162 |
|162 |
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|Narva |
|Narva |
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|166 |
|166 |
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|Ossenbrighs |
|Ossenbrighs |
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|84 |
| 84 |
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|Rhiga |
|Rhiga |
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|166 |
|166 |
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|Statin |
| Statin |
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|141½. |
|141½. |
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And thus much shall serve to have said for the Measures of this Country, whereto I have added the Measures of some other the adjoyning eminent Cities of Trade and Commerce. |
And thus much shall serve to have said for the Measures of this Country, whereto I have added the Measures of some other the adjoyning eminent Cities of Trade and Commerce. |
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To conclude, the Trade of Denmark driven by the Inhabitants, is not great, their Country partly not affording Commodities for Merchandize; and their Seas, I mean principally the Baltick, not being for many Months in the year navigable for Frost. The Inhabitants are frugal in Food and Apparel, and therefore not much addicted either to Silks or Spices, and the great Traffick and Concourse of other Nations through the Sound, that furnisheth them with all Necessaries, makes the Inhabitants less desirous to sail abroad to fetch the same at the first hand. Stock-fish, and other Salted Fish they send into forein Countries, and so also they do their Oxen and Cattel in great Quantity, besides the Commodities which the Country doth naturally afford, mentioned in the former part of this Country's Description; neither have I heard any great fame of their Navigations or Mariners which principally sail Northward, and little to the Southward, tho otherwise it is conceived that next to the English their Vessels are the strongest built to indure the Blasts of the colder Climates, and the Scorchings of the warmer Regions; yet of late days I have understood they have undertaken some new Discoveries and Trade to the East-Indies, which they have since fully performed, to the great Encouragement of such as shall follow them.</blockquote> |
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=== 1700. The merchants map of commerce by Roberts, Lewes. CHAP. CCXV. Of the Trade in general of Denmark. === |
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<blockquote>To conclude, the Trade of Denmark driven by the Inhabitants, is not great, their Country partly not affording Commodities for Merchandize; and their Seas, I mean principally the Baltick, not being for many Months in the year navigable for Frost. The Inhabitants are frugal in Food and Apparel, and therefore not much addicted either to Silks or Spices, and the great Traffick and Concourse of other Nations through the Sound, that furnisheth them with all Necessaries, makes the Inhabitants less desirous to sail abroad to fetch the same at the first hand. Stock-fish, and other Salted Fish they send into forein Countries, and so also they do their Oxen and Cattel in great Quantity, besides the Commodities which the Country doth naturally afford, mentioned in the former part of this Country's Description; neither have I heard any great fame of their Navigations or Mariners which principally sail Northward, and little to the Southward, tho otherwise it is conceived that next to the English their Vessels are the strongest built to indure the Blasts of the colder Climates, and the Scorchings of the warmer Regions; yet of late days I have understood they have undertaken some new Discoveries and Trade to the East-Indies, which they have since fully performed, to the great Encouragement of such as shall follow them.</blockquote> |
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===1695. Thesaurus geographicus a new body of geography by Abel Swall and Tim. Child. === |
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<blockquote>DENMARK, Dania. |
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DENMARK, so call'd, as it were the Country of the Danes, is a large and populous Kingdom; but from whence these Danes had their Original, is not sufficiently known to themselves; for some deduce it from one Dan, the Son of Humblus, a Prince of these Parts, who flourish'd many years before the Nativity of Jesus Christ; and others give it out that they proceeded from the Dahi, a certain People of Asia, altho' Dudo de St. Quintin, an ancient Writer (as we are inform'd by the Learned Mr. Camden) affirms that they came out of Scandia, and took Possession of the old Seats of the Cimbri; not to mention that some Persons absurdly derive the names of Dane and Denmark from Dan the Son of Jacob, and others from the Danai in Greece. But one may probably conjecture, that the Danes or Dansche took their denomination from the great opinion they had of their own Integrity, since the word Danneman is commonly apply'd by them, even at this day, to signifie an Ʋpright or Honest Man: It having been an usual Custom among the Northern Nations to appropriate Names to themselves, as well from their Piety and Civil Virtues, as from their Valour and Skill in Martial Discipline. |
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This Kingdom consists chiefly in the Peninsula of Jutland, encompass'd with the Islands of Seeland, Funen, Laland, Falster, and some others of less note; to which may be added the Provinces of Schonen, Halland and Bleking, on the other side of the Baltick Sea, that formerly appertain'd to the Jurisdiction of the Danes, but were entirely annex'd to the Crown of Sweden by vertue of a Treaty of Peace concluded at Roschild, between Frederick III. King of Denmark, and Charles Gustavus King of Swedeland A. D. 1658. which Treaty was confirm'd by another and ratified at Copenhagen in 1660. So that Denmark is at present bounded on all sides by the Sea, except one small Neck of Land where it joins to Holstein, the German Ocean washing it on the West and North-West; the entrance into the Baltick Sea, call'd the Categate on the North and North-East; the Baltick on the East, and the River Eyder on the South. Thus the utmost extent of the whole Kingdom from South to North contains about 74 Leagues from the 55 deg. to the 59 deg. 45 min. of Northern Latitude, and 53 Leagues from the 28 deg. 15 min. to the 34 deg. 30 min. of Longitude, viz. from the Western Coasts of Ripen to Copenhagen. The King of Denmark in like manner possesses some other Territories, viz. the Counties of Oldenburg and Delmenhorst in Germany; the Isles of Feroe and Iseland in the Northern Ocean; the Fort of Christiansburg on the Coasts of Guinea, another nam'd Tranquebar in the East-Indies, and St. Thomas one of the Caribbee Islands in the West-Indies, not to mention a Toll at Elfleet on the River Weser. |
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The Air, though very cold, is not so sharp as in some places of Germany, that are situated much more to the South, nor so excessive hot in Summer; so that this moderate Temperature may perhaps be chiefly attributed to the Sea flowing round about, which (as in England) refreshes the Inhabitants with gentle Breezes during the Summer Season, and keeps them warm in Winter. The Soil, tho' in most places naturally barren, and beset with Woods and Mountains, hath been of late much improv'd by the Industry of the Husband-man, and even render'd very fruitful, inso¦much that it brings forth a great deal of Corn and Hay, and abounds in rich Pastures, wherein are fed many Herds of excellent Horses, and so vast a Multitude of Kine, that (if we may give credit to Oldenburgh's report) some Years 40000, others 100000 Cows and Oxen are transported hence into the Low-Countries. Stags, Elks and Swine, are also very common here, together with variety of other sorts of Game. Indeed the Rivers are not very considerable, but there is a spacious Lake in North-Jutland, and the Coasts round about yield great quantities of Fish, more especially Herrings, Plaice, Whiting, Cod, &c. The Groves and Meadows afford a most delightful Prospect, and the Forests are well stockt with all sorts of Venison; so that every Hunting Season, which usually happens in the Month of August, above 1600 Bucks are brought into the Royal Palaces, besides an infinite number of Hares, Conies, Wild-Boars, &c. But among many other kinds of Fowl, no other Nation in Europe has such plenty of Woodcocks, which were esteemed by the ancient Romans as a great Rarity. |
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It is certain, that the Danes were heretofore a very Warlike People, and that most of the Northern Nations have been constrain'd at some time or other to submit to the force of their Arms; not to mention that the Cimbrians, the ancient Inhabitants of Denmark, often resolutely attack'd the Roman Troops, and that the Galli-Senones, who (as it is very probable) came out of the same Country to storm the City of Rome it self, and besieg'd the Citizens in the Capitol. Indeed we find it recorded in History, that the Danes subdu'd Ireland eight several times, that the English were ten times defeated by them, and for many Years subject to their Kings, and that Scotland became Tributary to them for a while; Saxony in like manner paid to Frotho, Siward, and other Danish Monarchs, and the Swedes were more than once compell'd to bear the same Yoke, until at last they found means to shake it off. Some are of opinion, that the Danes from their large size obtain'd the peculiar name of Geats, which was afterwards corrupted into Getae, Jutae, &c. however, altho' their Stature be now much diminish'd by the Luxury of later Ages, nevertheless they seem still to be more robust and long-liv'd, than most of their Neighbours: They are also very Industrious, Frugal and Courteous to Strangers, entertaining them with all manner of Civility; but they are naturally somewhat Haughty, Self-conceited and ready to pick a Quarrel on the least apprehension of an Affront. The ancient Drink of the Country was Oel, i. e. Ale or Beer made of Malt and Water, and still continues in ordinary use among the Inhabitants; but when the Juice of the Grape was recommended to them by their Neighbours the Germans, they soon learnt to Carouse, and imitated their Teachers in large Draughts and plentiful Meals. |
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As for the ordinary Danish LANGUAGE, it is no other than a corrupted Dutch, and without doubt proceeds from the same Source as the Swedish, Norwegian, German, Flandrian, and English, all which ought to be esteem'd as so many distinct Dialects of one and the same Mother-Tongue, that is to say, the old Teutonick, as it will plainly appear to any Man that shall take the pains to peruse and compare the Lord's Prayer in all these Languages; altho' indeed no account can be given of the several Jargons spoken in Lapland, Finland, and some other Countries lying to the North-East of Sweden and Denmark, the Gibberish of these People being as unintelligible to the civiliz'd Danes, as Chaldaick, Arabick, or any other Oriental Language. However the High-Dutch, or German-Tongue will perhaps within a little while become familiar to all the Danes, since it is already ordinarily spoken, not only in Copenhagen, but also in most of the chief trading Cities of Denmark. |
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The Roman Catholick RELIGION has been predominant for a long time in Denmark, until the Corruptions of the Church of Rome, growing intolerable in this as well as the other Northern Countries, Frederick I. Duke of Holstein, being elected King after the deposing of Christian II. his Nephew, began to introduce the Augsburg Confession into all the Churches of his Dominions, and made a League with the Protestant Princes of Germany. Afterward this Reformation was carry'd on by his Son Christian III. who granted a Permission to the English and Hollanders to build divers Churches. His Successors have likewise ever since caus'd the Lutheran Doctrine to be every where establish'd throughout the whole Kingdom, so that scarce any other Religion is profess'd here at this day, except that of the Calvinists, who have a French Church at Copenhagen set up by the Queen, besides a Popish Chappel at Gluckstadt, permitted about Ten Years ago to a few Roman Catholick Families in those parts; Together with certain Chappels built for Calvinists. Independants, Anabaptists, &c. at Altena near Hamburg. |
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The Kingdom of Denmark was at first Elective, yet so that the King's eldest Son was usually chosen by the Senators, and from that time styl'd the Prince; the other younger Sons enjoying the Titles of Dukes and Heirs of Norway. This Ceremony was heretofore perform'd after a very solemn manner; for the Senators being assembled in some convenient Place in the Fields, seated themselves in a Circle on so many great Stones, (to denote as it were the firmness of the Election) and there gave their Votes; whereupon the new elected Prince was plac'd in the middle on a Stone of a larger size than the rest, and immediately saluted King with joyful Acclamations. Indeed such a row of Stones still remains in Sealand, and is well known by the name of Kongstolen, or the King's Seat. There are also some Monuments in England of the like nature, particularly that of Biscow-Woun near St. Burien's in Cornwall, which the Learned Mr. Camden imagines to have been some Trophy erected by the Romans under the later Emperors, or else by Athelstan the Saxon, when he subdu'd these parts. But Wormius (perhaps with greater probability) conjectures that some Danish or Saxon Monarch was elected in this place by his Attendants. However the Danes of later years have follow'd the Customs of other Countries in their Elections, until they made the Succession to the Crown of Denmark Hereditary. A. D. 1660, in favour of the Family of Frederick III. who vigorously repulsed the Swedish Forces that had besieg'd Copenhagen; insomuch that the Monarchy is now become altogether absolute, altho' the Noblemen as yet retain a very great Authority. Thus the present King Christian V. was proclaim'd the very same Night his Father dy'd, without any previous Election or Consultation held by the Nobility. The Rites of Coronation are usually celebrated at Copenhagen in St. Mary's Church, and the King is Anointed by the Bishop of Roschild. |
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The Administration of JUSTICE is perform'd in four different Tribunals; the first of these is the Byfoght's Court in Cities and Towns, whereto answers that of the Herredsfougdt in the Country; from whence lies an Appeal to the Landstag, or general Head-Court of the Province. But the fourth and Supreme Court call'd the High-right, where the King himself sometimes sits in Person, is held at Copenhagen; and always consists of the principal Nobility of the Kingdom. In matters relating to the Royal Revenue, there is also establish'd a Rent-Chamber, which somewhat resembles our Court of Exchequer, besides the Court of Chancery, and that of the Admiralty for Maritime Affairs. But it is very remarkable, that altho' some Causes should happen to pass thro' all these Courts, nevertheless they may be soon try'd and determin'd, no Suit of whatsoever Importance remaining in suspence longer than a Year and a Month; since the Danes are altogether averse from unprofitable Formalities. They have their peculiar Statutes, or forms of Law, which are grounded upon Equity, and contain'd in one entire Quarto Volume, Written in the Vulgar-Tongue of the Country, with so much Plainness and Perspicuity, that any Man may easily understand his own Cause, and even plead it too (if he thinks fit) without the assistance of Council, Attorneys or Advocates. The Judges of the two first Courts are constituted by the King's Letters Patents, durante beneplacito, and their Salaries, which are not very great, do not consist in Fees, but are paid out of the Exchequer: They are also punishable for any Misdemeanor committed, so that whensoever one of them acts in any wise unjustly, or wilfully deviates from the positive Law, he forfeits one Moiety of his Estate, part whereof is adjudged to the King's Exchequer, and part to the use of the injur'd Party. |
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The King of Denmark has a considerable REVENUE arising from a Toll impos'd on all Merchants Ships, excepting those of the Swedes, that daily pass through the Straight of the Sound, which before the last War with Sweden came to 143000 Rix Dollars per Annum, but of late Years has not amounted to much more than 65000, besides a Revenue of 800000 Rix-Dollars from Norway; the Taxes and Impositions of his Subjects, and the Rents of his own Estate, Crown-Lands, Confiscations, &c. All the Danish Nobility derive their Pedigrees from a long Series of Ancestors, and every Family has for many Ages retain'd a single Coat of Arms, as judging it derogatory from its Antiquity to change or quarter it with any other, neither are they distinguish'd by the Titles of Dukes, Marquesses, Earls, or Barons, as in other Countries of Europe. There are some Noble Families even at this day, particularly that of Wren, whose Predecessors were present at the concluding of a Treaty of Peace between the Emperor Charles the Great, and Hemming King of Denmark on the River Eydor. All the Goods and Chattels of a Noble-man, upon his Decease, are equally divided among his Sons, and Daughters likewise by a peculiar Privilege are admitted to a third part of the Inheritance, but the Castles and Fortresses always devolve on the Male-Heirs. It is also ordain'd by the Laws of the Realm, that the King shall not buy any immoveable Goods belonging to the Nobility, to prevent Dissensions that may arise between them, altho' they may make an Exchange one with another. Neither are the Noblemen allow'd to purchase any Crown Lands or Estates appertaining to the King's Tenants. |
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Altho' the Nobility of Denmark in general do not accept of any distinct honourable Titles, nevertheless many of them are created Knights upon some notable piece of Service done their King or Country. These Knights are commonly call'd Ridders, i. e. Riders, (Equites) and their Off-spring have the Title of Ridders Men's Men. The most noble Order of Knighthood in these parts, is that of the Elephant, and this Honour has been most commonly conferr'd by the Kings, on the day of their Coronation, upon the Nobles, Senators, and other Illustrious Personages of the Kingdom. It is not certainly known when this Order was instituted, altho' Avo Bilde Bishop of Arhusen, sometime Chancellor to King John, in his Letter written A. D. 1537. to John Fris Chancellor to King Christian III. declares that Pope Sixtus IV. among other Honours, first invested King Christian I. with the same Order, in memory of our Saviour's Passion; but others affirm the Badge to be purely Military, and that it was given long before as an Incitement to the Danish Princes, who undertook to defend the Christian Religion against the Moors, Africans, and other Infidels. The Knights formerly wore a Collar of Gold emboss'd with Elephants and Crosses; at which hung the Picture of the Virgin Mary to the middle, holding Christ in her Arms, and surrounded with a Glory of Sun-Beams, but at present they only wear a blew Ribbon, at which hangs an Elephant enamell'd white, and adorn'd with five large Diamonds set in the middle. There is also another Order of Knighthood, commonly call'd the Danebroge, which was founded by Waldemar I. in memory of a signal Victory he had obtain'd over the Lieflanders, by the means (as it is suppos'd) of a Standard that fell from Heaven displaying a White Cross in a Bloody Flag, and inspir'd new Courage in his Army after they had lost the Royal Banner, and began to give ground. The present King Christian V. reviv'd this antiquated Order in the Year 1672, and enjoyn'd the Knights to bear a White enamell'd Cross edg'd round with Red, and hung in a String of the same Colour reaching from the right Shoulder to the left Side. Thomas Bartholinus has given a large Account of its first Original, Progress, Restauration, &c. |
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The whole Kingdom of Denmark may be divided into the Territories of the Continent, and those that are encompass'd with the Sea: The former contain the Peninsula of Jutland, which was heretofore call'd Chersonesus Cimbrica, and is distinguish'd into the Southern and Northern Provinces. South-Jutland, or the Dutchy of Sleswick, extends it self from the River of Schorburg, which separates it from North-Jutland to the Dutchy of Holstein. This Country affords good Pasture, and brings forth abundance of Corn: North-Jutland is stretch'd forth from the banks of the same River of Schorburg, as far as Cape Scagen, yielding Fodder to innumerable Herds of Oxen and Horses, and consisting in four Diocesses, viz. Those of Ripen, Arhusen, Wiburg and Alburg: Within the Maritime Territories are comprehended many Islands, the chief whereof are Sealand, Funen, Alsen, Arr, Toiling, Langeland, Laland, Falster, Mon and Bornholm. |
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South-Jutland divided into Two Parts. |
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*The Dutchy of Holstein divided into four Territories, viz. |
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**1. Holstein, properly so call'd, wherein are these Towns, viz. |
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***Kiel, Cap. |
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***...Wilster, |
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***...Nieumunster, |
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***...Rensburg. |
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** 2. Ditmarsh, in which are; |
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***...Meldorp, |
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***...Londen, |
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***...Heyden, |
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***...Westinburgen, |
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**3. Stormar, in which are; |
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***...Gluckstadt, |
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***...Kremp, |
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***...Bramsted, |
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***...Pinnemberg. |
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***...Bredenberg, |
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**4. Wagerland, in which are; |
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*** ...Segeberg, |
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***...Ploen, |
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***...Oldeslo, |
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***...Lutkemburg, |
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***...Oldenburg, |
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* The Dutchy of Sleswick divided into sixteen Parts, viz. |
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**13. Bailliages. |
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***Sleswick, Bish. Cap. |
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*** 1. Hadersleben, |
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*** 2. Tonderen, |
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*** 3. Appenrade, |
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***4. Flensburg, |
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***5. Sonderburg, |
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***6. Nordburg, |
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***7. Glucksburg, or Ruthkloster, |
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***8. Sundewit, |
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***9. Gottorp, |
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***10. Husem, |
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***11. Huten, |
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***12. Witensee, |
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***13. Merkier, |
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****...Ekelford, |
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****...Frederickstadt, |
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*3. Territories. |
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**1. The Destrict of Eyderstede. |
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**2. The Territory of Christi, or Preys. |
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**3. The Cloyster of Lhom. |
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*North-Jutland divided into four Diocesses. |
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**1. The Diocess of Ripen. |
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***Ripen, Bish. Cap. |
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***...Kolding, |
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***...Weel. |
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***...Rincoping, |
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***...Henneberg, |
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***...Lemwick, |
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**2. The Diocess of Arhusen. |
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***Arhusen, Bish. Cap. |
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***...Hobro, |
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***...Ebelto, |
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***...Horsen, |
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***...Grinna, |
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***...Ʋnderup, |
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***...Mariacker, |
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**3. The Diocess of Wiburg. |
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***Wiburg, Bish. Cap. |
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***...Leby, |
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***...Lembick, |
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*** ...Wegerby, |
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***...Holstebro, |
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*4. The Diocess of Alburg, in which are these Towns, viz. |
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** Alburg, Bish. Cap. |
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**...Hals, |
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**...Gistadt, |
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**...Hirring, |
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**...Scawen, |
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**...Nicoping, |
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*5. The Territory of Wensyssel. |
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**...Wensyssel, |
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**...Scagen, |
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**...Huggerby, |
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*...The Maritime Territories; Or Seventeen principal Islands. |
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**1. Sealand, in which are these chief Towns, viz. |
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***Copenhagen, Bish. Cap. |
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***...Roschild, |
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***...Elsenore, |
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***...Fredericksburg, |
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***...Ringstede, |
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***...Kallenburg, |
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***...Sor, |
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***...Koge, |
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***...Prestoe, |
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***...Warburg, |
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***...Korsoer, |
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**2. Amaga. |
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***...Drakoer, |
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**3. Funen. |
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***...Odensee, |
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***...Nyburg, |
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***...Middelfare, |
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***...Swynburg, |
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***...Woburg, |
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***...Bowens, |
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**4. Langeland. |
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***...Rudcoping, |
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***...Traneker, |
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**5. Laland. |
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***...Naskaw, |
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***...Newstadt, |
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***...Mariebo, |
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***...Saskoping, |
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**6. Falster. |
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***...NICOPING, |
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***...Stabecoping, |
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***...Falsterby, |
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**7. Monen. |
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***...Stekoe, |
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**8. Alsen. |
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*** ...Sunderburg, |
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***...Norburg, |
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**9. Femeren. |
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***...Burg, |
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***...Tassing, |
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***...Ketrop, |
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**10. Bornholm. |
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***...Rotemby, |
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***...Nex, |
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**11. Artoe. |
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***...Koeping, |
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**12. Ween. |
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***...Ʋraniburg, |
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**13. Samsoe. |
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***...Samsoe, |
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**14. Endelo. |
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***...Endelo, |
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**15. Leslo. |
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***...Hais, |
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**16. Sylt. |
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***...Syredrop, |
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**17. Norstand. |
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***...Pelworm, |
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*2 Territories in Germany. |
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**Oldenburg, and Delmenhorst. |
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***...Oldenburg. |
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HOLSTEIN, Holsatia is bounded on the East by the Dutchy of Lawemburg, and the Baltick Sea; on the West by the German Ocean, on the North by the Dukedom of Sleswick, and on the South by the River Elb, which separates it from those of Bremen and Lunenburg. These Territories in comprehending Ditmarsh, Stormar and Wagerland, were formerly known by the name of Nordablingia, or the Country lying beyond the Elb Northward, the more modern name of Holstein, (as we are inform'd by Adam Bremensis) being derived from Holts-geseten, i. e. its Situation in a Wood or Forest. It was at first •••y a Province of the Grand Dutchy of Saxony, but wa• bestow'd by Duke Lotharius, afterward Emperor of Germany, upon Adolph Earl of Schouwenburg or Schaumburg, about the Year 1114, and at last chang'd into a Dukedom by the Emperor Frederick III. A. D. 1474, in favour of Christian the Twelfth Earl, who had also obtain'd the Crown of Denmark; Thus the Dutchy of Holstein became part of that Kingdom, and the Danish Monarchs are on that account reckon'd among the Princes of the Empire, altho' not oblig'd to repair to any Diet. Afterward the Title of Duke of Holstein, together with a considerable part of the Country was given to Adolph the Brother of King Christian III. whom Queen Elizabeth admitted to be a Knight-Companion of the most noble Order of the Garter, in 1562. After the decease of this Duke, and the failure of his Issue Male, the same Title was conferr'd upon Ʋlrick, Brother to King Christian IV. but at present there are several Houses of the Dukes of Holstein, viz. Sunderburg, Norburg, Gluckburg, Arnsbeck, Gottorp, Ploen, and Ottingen, among whom the Duke of Holstein Gottorp nam'd Christian Albert is the chief, and lays claim to the same Authority and Privileges that were granted to the aforesaid Duke Adolph, the Brother of Christian III. However Christian V. the present King of Denmark, having seiz'd on his Person and principal Officers, in 1675, at Rendsburg, under colour of a Treaty, detain'd him Prisoner there, and compell'd him to renounce his Right to the Countries of Holstein and Sleswick, until the Duke found means to escape, protested against those Violences, and at length thro' the Mediation of divers Princes, more especially of William III. King of Great Britain, was restor'd to the greater part of his Territories in 1689, yet without any Reparation of past Damages; the rest being possess'd by the King of Denmark. |
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The Country of Holstein is well watered with Rivulets, and its chief Trade consists in the Fishery and selling of Hogs; insomuch that the convenience of Trafficking in the Baltick and British Seas, and the Industry of the Inhabitants, has render'd it the richest plot of Ground within the King of Denmark's Dominions. The Holsteiners are for the most part of a strong Constitution and undaunted Courage. They are also Sincere, Just in their Dealings, and very punctual in the observing of Oaths and Promises; So that Holstein glaub, or the Fidelity of an Holsteiner has even pass'd into a Proverb. |
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KIEL, Chilonium, is a well frequented Mart-Town, and the Capital of Holstein, so call'd (according to the opinion of some Authors) from its Situation on the Baltick Sea in a corner of Land, enclos'd between the Mouths of two Rivers; the German Word Kiel, properly signifying a Wedge. It stands almost in the midst between Flensburg to the North, and Lubeck to the South, and about four German Miles East of Rensburg, being defended by a strong Castle or Citadel, on the top of a Hill that commands both the Town and Haven, its Foundation having been laid by Adolph of Schaumburg the first Earl of Holstein. The Town is also adorn'd with a stately Palace, and many other fair Buildings; particularly a Monastery of Franciscan Minorites, which was founded by Earl Adolph IV. and when the Reformation prevail'd in these parts, was chang'd into an Hospital, besides a College erected by the present Duke of Holstein, and an University establish'd A. D. 1665. The Harbour is very large and commodious, being continually throng'd with Merchant Ships from Germany, Sweden, Liefland, and all the Isles on the Baltick Sea. Moreover in this Town the States of Holstein are usually conven'd every Year, to consult about the most important Affairs of the Dukedom, and especially those relating to the Mint, and Valuation of the Publick Coin. |
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WILSTER is a neat and well built Town, on a River of the same name, which not far from thence falls into the Stoer. |
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RENSBURG, or REINOLSBURG, the best fortified Town in the whole Dutchy, is almost encompass'd on all sides with the River Eyder, and defended by a strong Castle, which owes its Foundation to Gerhard II. sirnam'd the Great, Earl of Holstein. But the Town takes its name from one Reinold a Prince of the Blood, or Noble-man of great Authority and Reputation. |
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DITMARSEN, or DITMARSH, is bounded on the North by the River Eyder, and the Dukedom of Sleswick; on the South by the Elb and part of Stormar; on the East by the German Ocean, and on West by Holstein properly so call'd. Some write the Word Deutschmarsh or Teutschmarsh, i. e. the German or Dutch Marsh, because the Inhabitants of this Province are the Off-spring of the ancient German Saxons, and still retain much of their Valour and Warlike Temper; for they could not be forc'd to submit to the Earls of Holstein, as their Neighbours the Stormarians and Wagrians had done, until that whole Earldom was united to the Crown of Denmark; nay, they soon threw off the Yoke, altho' the Emperor Frederick III. had given their Territories to Christian Earl of Oldenburg and Holstein the first Danish Monarch of that House, and refus'd to do Homage to him or his Successors. But at last they were entirely subdu'd, in 1559, by Frederick II. assisted in this Expedition by his Cosins John and Adolph Dukes of Holstein; whereupon Ditmarsh was divided into two Parts, and shar'd beween the King and the said Dukes. |
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MELDORP, the chief Town of the Province of Ditmarsh, it stands on the Coasts of the German Ocean, and is a Place of considerable Trade. |
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LƲNDEN is situated over against Tonningen, near the Mouth of the River Eyder. |
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HEYDEN is a Town of a large extent, altho' of no great note, being seated on the Borders of the desert of barren Sands, that spreads it self into the middle of this Country. |
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STORMAR, STORMARS, or STORMARSH, Stormaria, according to the signification of its name, is a Morass or Marshy Ground, lying along the banks of the River Stoer. It has Wagerland and Lawenburg for its bounds on the East, Holstein proper on the North; and the Dutchies of Bremen and Lunenburg on the West and South. Indeed it is worth the while to observe that the several Territories of the Dukedom of Holstein are distinguish'd by names taken from the nature of the Soil, which here, as also in Ditmarsh, is rich, and in most places resembles that of Holland, as well in its Fruitfulness, as the manner of Improvement and Cultivation; so that the swelling Ocean often overflows great part of the lower Grounds, notwithstanding the Dikes and Banks that are rais'd by the Industry of the Inhabitants to keep it out, who nevertheless have considerable Advantages from the Neighbourhood of the River Elb, and the City of Hamburgh, which stands in this Provence, altho' one of the Hanse Towns, govern'd by its own peculiar Laws and Mag•strates: therefore we refer the Reader to its Description in Germany. The other chief Cities and Towns are these, viz. |
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GLƲCKSTADT is a small City seated on the right-side bank of the River Elb, near its Confluence with the Rhin. It was built and well fortified A. D. 1629, by Christian IV. King of Denmark, (who took great delight in its pleasant Situation) and afterward much enlarg'd by his Successors. And indeed a sufficient Proof of its Strength was made manifest soon after the first building of it; for it sustain'd a Siege of almost two Years continuance, and at last vigorously repell'd the Forces of the Emperor Ferdinand II. This strong Hold Commands the Passage of the Elb, and serves as a Curb to the Hamburgers, so that any Attempt made by them against the Danes would prove ineffectual, until they can make themselves Masters of so important a Fort, and by that means secure an open Road for their Vessels and Men of War. |
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KREMP, or CREMPEN, Crempa is situated on a Rivulet of the same name, which a little below empties it self into the Stoer, and in like manner owes its chiefest Strength to King Christian IV. who caus'd it to be encompass'd with a firm Wall and deep Ditches. This Town is esteem'd one of the Keys of the Kingdom of Denmark, and became famous for the gallant defence it made for thirteen Months together, in the Years 1627 and 1628, against the furious Attacks of Count Wallenstein, the Fortunate General of the Imperial Army, altho' at last it was constrain'd to Surrender upon honourable Terms. |
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BREDENBERG is one of the fairest little Towns in all the Territories of Denmark, and the ancient Seat of the noble Family of the Rantzow's. It is also no less Remarkable for the stout Opposition Count Wallenstein met with before it, who nevertheless at length took it by Storm, and put the whole Garrison to the Sword. |
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WAGEREN, or WAGERLAND, Wagria is almost encompass'd round about with the Baltick Sea, and the two Rivers Trave, or Travenna, and Suentin, extending it self in length from Oldeslo, as far as the Village Grotenbro near 48 English Miles, and about 20 in breadth. This Country takes its name from the Wagrii, a People of Sclavonia, who subdu'd these parts, and has for a long time given a Bull-head for its Coat of Arms, altho' it is not quarter'd with those of the other Provinces in the Escocheon of the Dukes of Holstein, perhaps because the Arms of Oldenburg are thought sufficient for the whole Province, which includes a Hanse Town within its limits as well as that of Stormar, namely Lubeck, seated at the Confluence of the Rivers Trave and Billew. But this City being a Branch of the Empire of Germany, is described at large among those of the Lower Saxony. The other principal Towns of Wagerland are these, viz. |
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SEGEBERG stands on the banks of the River Trave, at the distance of about 16 English Miles from Lubeck to the North-East, and was heretofore call'd Aelberg, which name was chang'd upon the building of a Castle on the top of the adjacent craggy Mountain. For the Emperor Lotharius (as the story is related by Helmoldus) having made choice of this Hill, in the Year 1134, for the erecting of a considerable Fortress to give a check to the growing Power of the Sclavonians; one of their Princes spake these words to his Attendants, Seest thou the Fortifications on the Top of those Mountains? Let me tell thee, it will in a short time prove the Yoke of the whole Land, &c. Whence (say the Danes) the Place still retains the name of Segeberg, signifying in the German Tongue, Behold the Mountains. |
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PLOEN is a Town of good Antiquity on the side of a Lake of the same name, with which it is well fortified, as also a Castle built not long since after the Italian manner of Architecture, by Joachim Ernestus Duke of Holstein. This Place at present affords a Title to the Valiant Duke of Holstein Ploen, who has signaliz'd his Valour on divers occasions during the present Wars. |
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OLDESLO, or ODELSO, is a fair Town watered by the River Trave, and situated in the middle between Segeberg and Lubeck. It was purchas'd in the Year 1338, by John Earl of Wagerland, for the Sum of 10000 Marks of Silver, and continu'd for a long time in a very flourishing Condition; but having suffer'd much Damage in the Wars between Eric of Pomeren, and the Dukes of Sleswick and Holstein, it could never as yet recover its former Beauty and Grandeur. |
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OLDENBƲRG is situated near the Baltick Sea, about 30 Miles from Lubeck to the North, and (as it is recorded in the Danish History) was anciently the Metropolis of the Wagrians and Venedi, two Warlike Nations that subdu'd the greatest part of Mecklenburg, as also some time a Bishop's See, which was founded by the Emperor Otho the Great, after he had overcome the Venedi, but was afterward translated to Lubeck, and bestow'd on Marcus his Chancellor. It was formerly a Town of considerable Trade, and very populous, having been adorn'd with four Churches, three Monasteries and five Gates, but it has insensibly fall'n to decay ever since the Harbour was stopt up, by the special Command of Margaret Queen of Denmark. |
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The Dutchy of SLESWICK, Ducatus Slesvicensis, or Southern Jutland, is bounded on the North by Northern Jutland, on the South by Holstein, on the East by the Baltick Sea, and on the West by the German Ocean; being extended in length from Kolding, and the River Leewens Aa, as far as Dannewick, about 18 German Miles, and not above six, or in some places eight, in its greatest breadth. This Dutchy was first granted by Christopher I. King of Denmark, about A. D. 1253, by way of Appenage to the Children of King Abel, on Condition that the Duke of Pomeren, and some other petty Princes of Vandalia, should always pay Homage to the Danish Monarch, and quit all claim to the Crown. In process of time it became the Inheritance of King Christian I. of Oldenburg, who annexed it to the Royal Demeasns, a part of which it has continu'd ever since; altho' indeed it has been often assign'd as a Portion to the younger Princes of the Blood, and is at present divided between the King of Denmark and the Duke of Holstein Gottorp. The most remarkable Cities and Towns of this Dukedom, are these, viz. |
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SLESWICK, or SLEYSWICK, Slesvicum, the Metropolis of the whole Province so call'd from thence, and a See of a Prelate Suffragan to the Arch-Bishop of Lunden, takes its name from its Situation on a River, or rather a small Arm of the Sea, nam'd by the Inhabitants De Slye, so that Sleswick is no more than a Town upon the Sley; Wic in the old Saxon Tongue signifying a Village or Fort, as Vicus in Latin, and Wiick even at this day among the Hollanders. But the Danes (according to Pontanus) impos'd on it the name of Haithaby, i. e. the Habitation of Hetha, a certain Queen of that Nation. However it was without doubt, heretofore a Place of very great Trade, much frequented by Merchants from Great Britain, France, Spain, Flanders, and other parts of Europe: And indeed Adam Bremensis, who flourish'd about A. D. 1100, calls it Civitatem Opulentissimam ac Populosissimam, i. e. an extremely Rich and populous City. King Eric Barn founded the great Church in the Ninth Century, with the assistance of St. Anschar Arch-Bishop of Hamburgh, who had converted the Inhabitants to Christianity. Not long after, viz. in 1064, the Sclavonians invaded these Parts, ruin'd the Church, and re-establish'd the Heathenish Superstitions: But within a while the Danes shook off the Yoke, and entirely expell'd these Foreigners, whereupon Paganism was again extirpated, the Christian Religion restor'd, and the Cathedral re-edify'd. Afterward the Angles who maintain'd a considerable Trade in Sleswick, built a Church dedicated to the Holy-Ghost, near the Market-place, together with the adjoyning Hospital. |
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This City stands between Flensburg to the North, and Rensburg to the South, only four German Miles West of the Baltick Sea, 11 from Hadersleben, and 16 North of Lubeck. Within a few Miles from Sleswick to the South, are yet to be seen in many places, the ruins of the famous Wall and Trench which was built about, A. C. 809, in the time of the Emperor Charlemagne, by Gotricus then King of Denmark, to hinder the Incursions of the Saxons, and somewhat resembles the Picts Wall erected by the Romans in Great Britain. This ancient Rampart is commonly call'd Danewark by the Inhabitants, and the report goes that it sometime reach'd (as well as that in England) from one Sea to the other. |
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HADERSLEBEN, or HADERSLEVE, a noted Sea-port Town, is situated near the Baltick Sea, over against the Island of Funen, at the distance of seven German Miles from Flensburg, and 40 from Sleswick to the North. Waldemar Duke of Jutland, confirm'd its Charter about the Year 1292, and it formerly had for its defence a strong Castle founded on the Top of a Hill that commands the Town. But John Earl of Holstein, eldest Son of King Christian I. caused this Fortress to be demolished, and began to build a new one call'd from his name Hansburg, or John's Castle, (Hans in the German and Danish Tongues signifying the same with John) which was not brought to Perfection until the time of King Frederick II. The Streets in Hadersleben are generally fair, broad, and Mevery uniform. In the great Church is to be seen a stately Monument erected by King Eric VIII. to the mory of Rombold Duke of Silesia, who was sent hither in quality of Ambassador from the Emperor Sigismund, to accommodate the differences between the said King and the Earls of Holstein, about their Pretensions to the Dutchy of Sleswick, but dy'd before the Negotiation was finished. This Town and Castle were twice taken by the Swedes during their Wars with the Danes, but restor'd to the later by virtue of a Treaty of Peace concluded between both Crowns, A. D. 1658. It is also remarkable for giving Birth to Frederick III. King of Denmark, in 1609, who was the first that render'd that Crown Hereditary. |
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TƲNDERENS, two Port-Towns, viz. the Greater and Lesser, stand on the Western shore or Coasts of the German Ocean, and are both Places of no small Traffick. |
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APPENRADE is built on a small Bay of the Baltick Sea, over against the Isle of Alsen, and much frequented by the Danish Fisher-men. |
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FLENSBƲRG, Flensburgum, is so call'd from the Bay of Flen upon which it is seated, altho' others derive its name from one Fleno a Danish Noble-man, who was Lord of the Mannor, and had the Custom of the Fishing-trade hereabouts; but Mhier would have it written Ʋlensburg from Ʋlens, which in the Language of the Natives denotes the ebbing and flowing of the Sea. The Town is remarkable for its Situation in a low and pleasant Vally encompass'd with divers high Hills, and consists chiefly in one continu'd Street of fair Buildings, reaching near two English Miles in length, the Ships riding so commodiously in the Haven, that the Burgers load and unload them even at their very doors. The Suburbs are guarded with a Castle that stands on the Top of a Hill and commands both the Town and Harbour; between which and Sleswick lies a Territory, in time past inhabited by the ancient Angles, the Ancestors and first Founders of our English Nation in Great Britain, as it appears both from the Testimony of the famous Historian Ethelwerd, and a small Village in this Tract, still retaining the name of Anglen. |
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GOTTORP, Gottorpium, the ancient Palace of the Earls and Dukes of Holstein near Sleswick, is indeed one of the finest Seats in all these Northern parts of Europe, being extreamly well fortified, and standing in an Island, environed with a large Lake made by the River Sley, the Waters whereof are clear and full of Fish, carrying Vessels of small burden to and from the Baltick Sea. The Gardens belonging to these Appartments are large, cut out of a steep Hill on the other side of the Lake, and beautify'd with curious Fountains, Parterres, Walks and Water-works; besides a noble and spacious Park, or rather Forest adjoyning, well stockt with Deer, Wild-Boars, and other sorts of Game. Among the chief Rarities of this Place, we may reckon the Library, which is a Storehouse of choice Books and Manuscripts that have been collected with much diligence and precaution by divers Dukes of Holstein. Here also is to be seen an admirable Globe, which one of the Dukes caused to be made of Copper, being 10 Foot and an half in Diameter; on it is represented the figure of the Sun, which moves in the Eccliptick-Line Rising and Setting regularly. And indeed the Motion of this whole Globe exactly follows that of the Heavens, by the means of certain Wheels which are turn'd about by Water convey'd from an adjacent Mountain. At Gottorp is establish'd a Tol-booth, or Custom-house, where Toll is paid every Year for 50000 head of Cattel, transported out of Jutland into Germany. |
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EKELFORDT, or EKELENFORDT, Ekelenfordia lies between Sleswick and Kiel, and had its name from the abundance of Squirrels in the neighbouring Woods, as it is evident from the Arms of the Town, which is much enrich'd by Traffick, and the convenience of its Harbour, as being one of the safest on the Coasts of the Baltick Sea. |
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FRIDERICKSTADT, Fridericostadium is a little Town on the banks of the River Eyder, which owes its Foundation to Frederick Duke of Holstein and Sleswick, who endeavoured to settle the Silk-Trade there, and to that purpose, in the Year 1633, sent a famous Embassy into Persia and Moscovy; an Account whereof has been publish'd by the Secretary Adam Olearius. |
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The Diocess of RIPEN, Dioecesis Ripensis, bordering on Southern Jutland, contains 30 several Lordships, 282 Parishes, 10 Castles, 100 Noble-mens Houses, and 7 Cities or large Towns, the chief of which are these, viz. |
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RIPEN, Ripa, is situated in a very pleasant Country on the clear River Nipsaa, which parting it self into three streams, divides the Town into as many parts, and gave occasion to its Arms, which are three Lions. It has been long since dignified with a Bishops See, Suffragan of Lunden, and has a Commodious Harbour, together with astrong Fort. The Cathedral is a Magnificent Structure of hewn Stone, adorn'd with a Tower or Steeple of a vast height, built with Marble and Brick, which serves as a Land-mark to those that Sail along these dangerous Coasts. This Church was first founded on the Top of a Hill, by Eric, sir-nam'd Barn, or the Child, King of Denmark; whom St. Anschar converted to Christianity about A. C. 848. But it was not made a Cathedral, nor the Episcopal See settled there until near 150 Years after, when Idolatry which had prevail'd again in the Kingdom under some Foreign Princes was abolish'd, and the Christian Religion re-establish'd. There is also founded here a kind of University, but it is much inferiour to that of Copenhagen. The City of Ripen was taken by the Swedes, A. D. 1645, and recover'd within a little while after. It is distant 55 Miles from Sleswick to the North-West, and 67 from Wiburg to the South. |
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KOLDING is water'd on the South side by a River, which separates the Northern Jutland from the Southern, and soon after discharges it self into the Baltick Sea. King Eric Glipping, having laid the first Foundation of this City about A. D. 1268, in the place of an old Castle of the same name, caused it to be fortified with strong Walls and deep Ditches, so as it might be able to defend the Frontiers of the Danish Dominions, which at that time were extended no farther Southward. But Christian III. took so great delight in its Situation and the Pleasantness of the adjacent Country, that he repair'd the Castle Arnsburg, that hangs over the Town, remov'd his Court thither, and dy'd in the same place. The Bridge over the River brings a great Treasure every Year into the King of Denmark's Exchequer, since for every Ox or Horse that passes it toward Holstein, or any of the Hanse Towns, the Owners pay a Rix-dollar, i. e. almost a Crown in English Mony, besides the Imposts laid upon all other kinds of Merchandizes; so that considering the numerous Herds of Cattle convey'd yearly out of North Jutland this way, the Toll must needs amount to a vast Revenue. |
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LEMWICK stands on the side of the Bay of Limford, whence its name is deriv'd, and is the utmost boundary of the Diocess of Ripen. |
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The Diocess of Arhusen lies along the Coasts of the Baltick Sea, and within its limits are enclos'd 31 Courts of Judicature, 7 Cities or Wall'd Towns, 304 Parishes, and 5 Forts, the strongest whereof is Schanderborch or Schonderborch, i. e. the fair Castle built on the River Gudden. |
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ARHƲSEN, Arhusium, is a neat and pleasant City on the Baltick shore, two Miles West of the Isle of Funen, 10 South of Alburg, and 26 North of Lubeck. It is so call'd (accroding to most Etymologists) as it were Aar-hus, that is to say, the House of Oars; altho' Pontanus, with much less probability, would willingly deduce the word Arhusen from Ptolomy's Harudes. Some are of opinion that Poppo was ordain'd the first Bishop of this Diocess A. C. 992, but the greater part of the Danish Historiographers assure us, that the Episcopal See was not founded until the Year 1014. The Cathedral Church is a curious piece of Architecture, beautified with divers rich Monuments of Prelates, Noble-men, &c. But the Bishop's Palace has lain for a long time in its Ruins, yet shews some marks of its ancient Magnificence and Grandeur. The City of Arhusen was taken and almost destroy'd by the Swedes, A. D. 1644. |
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THE Diocess of WIBƲRG is situated in the very middle of North-Jutland, and its most memorable Bays are Sallingsundt, Vicksundt, Hualpsundt, Sebersundt, and Otthesundt, the last of which is so called from the Emperor Otho. I. sir-nam'd the Great, who made an Inroad into Jutland about the Year 948, and penetrated even as far as these parts, where (as it is reported) having cast a Javelin into this Bay, he gave it the name it still retains. But the most considerable quarter of this Diocess is Salling, a fruitful Peninsula in the Lymford, where are bred the best Horses in the whole Kingdom of Denmark. |
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WIBƲRG stands in the heart of the Promontory of North-Jutland, at an equal distance from the German and Baltick Sea, eight Miles from Alburg to the South-East; and is indeed a Place of a very great concourse of People, who resort to the high Court of Judicature held here, from whence lies no Appeal, except to the King himself. It was formerly called Cimmersberg, as being the chief City of the ancient Cimbrians; but it is not well known whence came the more modern name of Wiburg: For some are of opinion that it was taken from Wiglet, a certain Prince who united the petty Principalities of the Cimbrians. And Elnot in the Life of St. Canutus intimates, that it came from Wig an Idol worship'd in this place, but it is very probable, that it was the Seat of the Danish Pirates, anciently termed Wigs or Wikenger, as the Inhabitants of Glocester-shire, Worcester-shire, &c. (according to Mr. Camden's Conjecture) were heretofore called Wiccii from the Sea-Robberies, continually committed by them on the Mouth of the River Severn. The Episcopal See of Wiburg was founded by King Sueno Esthrith, A. D. 1065, and Herebert was installed the first Bishop. |
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THE Diocess of ALBƲRG lies North of that of Wiburg, and comprehends 13 High-Courts of Judicature, 180 Parishes, 6 principal Towns, and 100 Noble-mens Seats. The most fruitful part of it is seated between the German Ocean and Lymford Bay, which extends it self along a great part of the Peninsula of Jutland, and comp•ehends a large Island nam'd Mors. The chief Town of this Tract is Tysted, where Christian III. founded a Free-School, which is now improved to a kind of University. |
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ALBƲRG is seated on the Lymford, scarce three Miles West of the Baltick Sea, and owes its name to the vast quantities of Eels taken in that part of the Bay, having been before called Burgle, whence the Bishoprick is often named in Latin Episcopatus Burglaviensis, or Burglumiensis. This Bishoprick was first erected by King Sueno Esthrith, the Son of Ʋlf an English Earl, A. D. 1065, at the same time with that of Wiburg, so that there has been for some Years a Contest between the Prelates of these Diocesses about Precedency, each pretending his Bishoprick the most ancient. But the Bishops of Alburg usually resided at Borlum, a small Village not far from this City, until upon the Establishing of the Reformation throughout the Kingdom of Denmark, Stigot the last Popish Bishop was enjoyn'd to abdicate all Episcopal Jurisdiction, and to retire into the Monastery of Borlum. This happened A. D. 1536, and the Lutheran Prelates ever since have had their Palace at Alburg. |
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The Territory of WENSYSSEL extended toward the farthest Promontory of North-Jutland, is known by the Latin names of Venulia and Vandalia, and supposed to have been the Seat of the ancient Vandals. The chief Town in this Tract is likewise call'd Wensyssel from the Province, and the Inhabitants are the most robust of any throughout the whole Kingdom of Denmark. |
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SCHAGEN stands on the very point of the Cape or Promontory and is washed both by the Norwegian and Baltick Seas. It is much more frequented by Merchants from all parts of Europe, than any other Town in Jutland, and its Trade would be far more considerable if the adjacent Coasts were not so dangerous. |
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SEELAND, or ZEALAND, the largest and most fruitful Island in the Baltick Sea, lies to the East of Funen, and is separated from thence by the Streight of the Belt, as also on the other side from the Continent of Schonen by a small Frith, which the Inhabitants call Oresundt, or the Sound, thro' which pass all Merchant-Ships that Trade into the Baltick. This Island, which extends it self about 80 English Miles in length, and 240 in compass, is undoubtedly the ancient Codononia, mention'd by Pomponius Mela, which signifies the same thing as the more modern words of Dania or Denmark. It is named Seeland, (according to the opinion of most Danish Authors) as it were Soedland or Seedland, from the plenty of Corn that grows therein; but others more probably affirm that the word denotes only an Island or Plot of Ground encompass'd with the Sea. The Soil is very fertile bringing forth Wheat in some places, Barley almost every where in abundance, together with a great quantity of Rye and Oats. The Grass is generally short and sweet, growing on the borders of the Cornfields, or in some Moorish Grounds. There is also a great number of Lakes well stor'd with Fish, and Forests yielding much variety of Game, viz. Stags, Wild-Boars, Ro-Bucks, &c. Indeed the Country is in most places very pleasant, as being beset with little Hills, Woods, chiefly of Beech-Trees, Rivulets and Lakes, that afford a delicate Prospect to the Eye, by their agreeable diversity. |
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COPENHAGEN, Hafnia aut Haunia, the Metropolis of the Isle of Seeland, as also of the whole Kingdom of Denmark, and the Royal Seat of the Danish Monarchs, is seated in a Plain on the Streight of the Sound, only three Danish Miles from the Coasts of Schonen, four East of Roschild, as many South of Kronenburg, 30 likewise South of Gotheburg, 45 West of Calmar, and 70 South-West of Stockholm. It is commonly call'd Kiobenhaun by the Inhabitants, and Copenhaven by the Germans, corruptly for Kiobmanshaven, i. e. Portus Mercatorum, or the Merchants Haven; altho' Meierus, a learned Writer, with little or no Grounds, derives the Etymology of its name from Coppen, signifying James in the Frisian Language, that is to say, St. James's Haven. However it is no very ancient City, as having taken its rise from a Fortress which Axel, Huydo, or Wide sir-named Snare, (whom Saxo Grammaticus calls Absolon) Arch-Bishop of Lunden, erected in this Place about the Year 1168, to restrain the Incursions of Pirates. The Fort was then known by the name of Axel-huys, and proved a good Defence to the whole Island, insomuch that it was soon surrounded with divers Cabbins of Fisher-men, and Magazines or Ware-houses of Merchants and other Traders, that continually resorted hither to furnish their Vessels with such Provisions and Commodities, as the Country afforded. Thus Traffick daily encreased more and more, and the first Foundations were laid of a Hamlet, which in process of time grew up to as flourishing a City as most in Europe; James Ecland, Bishop of Roschild, was its first Patron, and granted many Privileges thereto, A. D. 1254. These were confirmed by his Successor Ignatius, and considerably enlarged by King Waldemar, in 1341, as also by Eric of Pomerania, in 1371. Afterward Christopher of Bavaria endow'd it with the same Immunities, as the other Cities of Denmark, in 1443; And all these Concessions were ratified by the large Charters of Christian III. and Frederick II. |
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Indeed the Situation of Copenhagan is extreamly advantagious, being encompassed on the Land side with a very pleasant Country, and on the Sea-side with one of the finest Harbours in the World, capacious enough to hold 500 Sail; the Road without is likewise very safe, and fenc'd from the Violence of the Waves, by a large Bank of Sand. The entrance of the Port is so narrow, that but one Ship can pass at once, and is shut up every Night with a strong Boom, the Mouth of it being commanded on one side by the Citadel, and on the other by a Block-house, well furnished with Cannon. The City it self is environed with deep Ditches, and high Ramparts of Earth rais'd according to the Rules of Modern Fortification, and joyned on the Eastern side by a Timber-Bridge, to the little Isle of Amager. The Streets are broad, clean and neat, having Lights constantly kept therein during the Night. The Houses amounting to the number of 9000, are for the most part well built with Timber, but the Intervals are filled up with Brickwork. The principal Churches are those dedicated to the Holy-Ghost and St. Nicolas, but the Cathedral, in which the Kings are usually Crown'd, bears the name of St. Mary, and is adorned with a stately Copper Spire, built at the proper cost and charge of Christian IV. the present King's Grandfather, who was the Founder of divers other noble Structures. The University of Copenhagen was founded by Christian I. in 1478, or 1479, and this Prince procured for it of Pope Sixtus IV. the same Privileges with those of Bononia in Italy. Not many Years ago an Academy was in like manner established here, for the Teaching of all sorts of Martial Exercises, as Dancing, Vaulting, Riding the Great Horse, &c. besides Foreign Languages, and the Mathematical Sciences. His present Danish Majesty has much improved this College, and endow'd it with considerable Revenues and Privileges. Among the other Publick Buildings, the chief are the Citadel, the Observatory, called Runde Taarn, or the Round Tower; the Royal Palace, with the adjoyning Gardens and Banqueting-house of Rosenburg; the Exchange, and the Arsenal, which is undoubtedly one of the best in Europe, and much celebrated for that wonderful Celestial Globe, of six Foot Diameter, made by Tycho Brahe, the renowned Danish Astronomer. The Market-place is extreamly spacious, and no small Ornament to the City, which is governed by four Burgo-Masters, one of whom enjoys the Title of Regent, or President, during his Life. |
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It 1658, the Swedish Forces under the Conduct of their Valiant King Charles Gustavus, marched ove• the Ice from the Country of Holstein, to the Island of Funen, and having harrassed these Territories, compelled the King of Denmark to accept of a Peace on very disadvantageous Terms. In the next Year the same Prince returned with his Army, and formally invested the City of Copenhagen, but was at last forc'd to raise the Siege. |
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ROSCHILD, or ROSKILL, Roschildia takes its name from a River with which it is watered, and that drives seven Mills, Roe in the ancient Danish Language signifying a King, and Kille a Stream of Water or Brook. It was formerly the Metropolis of the whole Kingdom, and once contained (as we are informed by Lyscander) no less than Twenty seven fair Churches. An Episcopal See was also erected there by Sueno or Suenotho King of England, Denmark, Sweden and Norway, about the year 1012. and one Gerebrard a Monk was ordain'd the first Bishop, whose Successours had the honour of Crowning the Kings of Denmark; but this Bishoprick has been since united to that of Copenhagen. Afterward Sueno Gratenhede caused the Town to be fortify'd with a Ditch, Wall and other Ramparts. The old Cathedral Church is famous for the Tombs of many Danish Monarchs, some whereof are very sumptuous and magnificent; among these stands a fair Marble Pillar, on which Margaret Queen of Denmark hung the Whet-stone she had receiv'd from Albert King of Sweden, to sharpen her Needles. But this unfortunate Prince paid dear for his Jest; for being defeated by the Queen in a bloody Battle, he was detained seven Years in Prison, and compell'd to renounce all his Right to the Kingdom of Sweden. Moreover the Town of Roschild is noted for a Treaty of Peace concluded between the Swedes and Danes, Anno 1658. |
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ELSENEƲR, ELSENORE, HELSCHENOER, HELSINGOR, or HALSINGOR, is so nam'd as it were Halsen-Ore, i. e. an Ear in the Neck, as being at first only a Watch-Tower (built on the Neck or streight of the Sea, commonly call'd the Sound, or Oresound; it is also probable that the Castle of Helsingburg on the opposite Shore of Schonen derives its name from the same Original. Between these two Forts pass all Vessels that Trade into the Baltick, so that this Streight next that of Gibraltar may well be esteem'd the most frequented and considerable of any in Europe. The Town of Elsenore is defended by the Royal and Impregnable Castle of Croneburg, which commands this side of the Sound, as Helsingburg secures the other. It owes its foundation to Frederick II. who built it at his own proper Charges with Free-stone brought thither out of Gothland, and Cover'd it with Copper. This Fortress has been for many Years the Seat of the Danish Monarchs, and at present every Ship that passeth through the Streight is oblig'd to strike Sail thereto. Afterward the Master is to come to a Composition in the Town for Custom, under a penalty of the Confiscation of his Vessel and all its Cargo. |
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FREDERICKSBƲRG, Fredericoburgum, the chief Country Palace of the Kings of Denmark, stands about Twenty English Miles from Copenhagen to the North-west in the midst of a Lake, the Foundations of it being laid in the Water, and the Passages leading thereto over several Draw-bridges. It was formerly only a Monastery call'd Ebelholt, and dedicated to the Holy Ghost, of which Joannes' Parisiensis who was Canoniz'd for a Saint, is said to have been Abbot about the Year 1201. The lower part of the House is built with Free-stone, and the upper with Brick, having been first begun by one Harlef a Danish Nobleman, who sold it to King Frederick II. Afterward his Son Christian IV. laid out vast Sums of Money in inlarging this Royal Palace, and beautifyed it with the richest Statues, Pictures, Hangings and other sorts of Furniture that Europe could afford, but it was not entirely finished until the time of Frederick III. The adjoyning Park was first Stockt with Fallow-Deer, transported thither out of England, in the 24th. Year of Queen Elizabeths Reign, and adorn'd with large Ponds, abundance of high Trees, a fair Bathing House and other Embellishments. |
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RINGSTEDE is seated in the very center of Seeland, being a Town of the greatest Antiquity of any in Denmark, except Roschild. Many of the Danish Kings were interr'd therein, particularly King Waldemar I. and Eric the Pious. |
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KALLENBƲRG, Callunda aut Callundeburgum, was at first a small Village, known by the name of Herwig, and inhabited only by Fishermen. But Esbern Brother to Axel or Absolon Huyd Arch-Bishop of Lunden, rais'd it to the dignity of a City about A. D. 1158. or (according to the opinion of others) in 1171. and Beautify'd it with a Castle, Church, and divers other publick Edifices. It is also at present a place of a considerable Trade, and has a very safe and commodious Harbour. |
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SOR, SOOR or SOER, Sora, is remarkable for its Situation in a pleasant Woody Country, between Slagen and Ringstede. The abovementioned Absolon Huyd Arch-Bishop of Lunden and Bishop of Roschild first founded a fair Monastery here, about the middle of the XII. Century, and endowed it with large Revenues for the Maintenance of divers learned Men, among whom was Saxo Grammaticus the Famous Author of the Danish History. Afterward Esbern the said Arch-Bishops Brother enlarg'd it, and augmented the Revenues by the addition of fourteen Villages. King Frederick II. in like manner having remov'd the School which he had established at Fredericksburg for the Education of the young Nobility in this place, made a further Augmentation of the Income: Insomuch, that of a rich Popish Monastery it became one of the Noblest Free-Schools in the reformed part of Christendom, which was turned into a small University by Christian IV. who appointed Sallaries for a certain Number of Professors, and at the same time constituted an Academy furnished with able Masters for the Instructing of young Gentlemen in all sorts of Martial Exercises and Acts of Chivalry. Thus in process of time the University of Sora grew to be the most famous in the whole Kingdom of Denmark. In the Year 1621. the Lands of the demolished Nunnery of Mariebo in Laland were given thereto; but at present these and all the other large Territories formerly belonging to this University are possest by the King; who sometimes talks of reestablishing it, but perhaps a stop has been put to his design, chiefly through the dissuasion of the Professors at Copenhagen, whose Interest it is to hinder the Establishing of another University in their Neighbourhood. |
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KOGE, Coagium, is a small but very populous Town, distant about 16 Miles from Copenhagen to the South. It is much enricht by Traffick, and more especially throng'd with Corn-Merchants and Fishmongers. |
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AMAGA, or AMAGER, Amagria, the least Island of the Danish Seas, lies on the East of Copenhagen, about six English Miles in length, four in breadth, and fifteen or sixteen in compass, being well stockt with all sorts of Fowl and Venison. It likewise brings forth much Corn, and furnishes the Markets of Copenhagen every Week with variety of Provisions, viz: Meat, Milk, Butter, Cheese, Hares, Domestick Fowls, all sorts of Herbs, &c. whence it is commonly call'd the Nurse of this City, and (as some think) took its name; for Amaga in the old Teutonick Tongue signifies a Granary or Store-house: We may also refer thereto the Etymology of divers Towns in Germany and elsewhere ending in Magum, viz. Drusomagum, Borbetomagum, Duromagum, Neomagum, &c. In this Island are two Parish Churches, viz. one called Hollander Byes Kirck, i. e. the Dutch Church set apart for the use of a Colony of that Nation, above 150 Years ago by King Christian II. and the other Torne Byes Kirck, which belongs to the Natives. The Swedish Forces made a Descent on this Island, on the 9th. of October Anno 1658. and the next day burnt all the Villages in it; but on the 10th of December following, their King Charles Gustavus, and General Wrangel were forced to leave their Army engag'd in Battle, and to escape by flight in a Fisher-mans Boat. |
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FƲNEN, Fionia is situated between Seeland and Jutland, being separated from the former by the Beltis-Sundt, or great Belt, and from the later by the lesser Belt or Middelfarsundt. Its name (according to the conjecture of Stephanius) is derived from the word Fion, which in the old Runick Monuments denotes a Neck of Land rent from the Continent. It is the largest Island next to Seeland, of any in the Dominions of the King of Denmark, reaching about 10 German Miles in length from East to West, as also 8 in Breadth, and 190 English Miles in Compass. It contains above 250 fair Villages, and 264 Parish Churches. This Island abounds with all manner of Grain, especially Wheat, Rye, and Barley: So that great Quantities thereof are transported thence Yearly into other Countries. Here are also numerous Herds of Cattle, and very good breeds of Horses; not to mention that the Woods which overspread almost the whole Island, are extreamly well Stor'd with Deer, Hares, Foxes and other sorts of Game. |
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ODENSEE or OTTENSEE, Ottonia, took its Name (as some say) from Woden, otherwise called Othin or Odin, the great Idol of the ancient Danes, and others with greater probability give it out that it was first founded by Otho I. Emperor of Germany, who invaded a great part of the Danish Territories, and left his name in several Places. But Pontanus makes King Harold its Founder, who to testify his gratitude to the said Emperor, through whose persuasion he had embrac'd the Christian Religion, named the Town Ottensche, and his Son Suenotho. This City stands in the very heart of the Island 14 Miles North of Sleswick, and 18 West of Copenhagen, and is on that account a fit place for the Sessions of the Nobility and Magistracy yearly held here, as were likewise the General Conventions of the States of the Realm before the Year 1660. It is also Dignified with a Bishops See, under the Metropolitan of Lunden, which was erected A. C. 950. The Houses are generally well Built, and the Streets very uniform. Among other publick Buildings are two fair Churches, viz. one Dedicated to St. Francis, and the other to St. Cnute; not far from the latter of these stands a stately Town-house, on a very spacious Market-place, where the ancient League between the Crown of Denmark, and the Dukes of Holstein and Sleswick was renewed by King Frederick II. A. D. 1575. St. Canutus King of Denmark was Murder'd in St. Albans Church in the same City A. D. 1077. or 1078. but the Workmen as they were repairing the Quire of the Church which now bears his Name, found in a Vault his Body laid in a Copper Coffin Guilt and adorn'd with precious Stones, together with an Inscription in old Latin Gothick Characters. |
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NYBƲRG is seated over against Corsaer in Seeland, and has a capacious and safe Port, capable of Harbouring a great number of Vessels, even of the largest size. It is one of the principal Towns in the Isle of Funen, and the usual passage from thence into Seeland, having been first Fortified with a Moat and Ramparts by King Christian III. It is also famous for the memorable Battle Fought by the Confederate Forces of the Empire, Brandenburg, Poland and the Low Countries against the Swedes, in the Year 1659. who were defeated in that Engagement, and totally routed out of Funen. |
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MIDDELFARE lyes on the common passage from this Isle to Kolding in Jutland; and is noted for the Expedition of Charles Gustavus King of Sweden, who having led his Army over the Ice to this place on the 10th day of January A. D. 1658. put the Danes to flight, and made himself absolute Master of the whole Island of Funen. |
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SWYNBƲRG stands over against the Island of Langeland, and is in like manner celebrated for the passage of the Swedish Forces over the Ice into Seeland in the same Year 1658. |
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LANGELAND is a narrow Island so call'd from its oblong form, and extended between Funen, Seeland and Laland, about 28 Miles in Length, and only 8 in Breadth. The principal Town is RƲDKOPING, which the Danish Writers call a City, tho' it is a very mean one, and not at all considerable for its Traffick. In this Island are likewise contain'd 16 Parish Churches, and many Noblemens Seats, besides the strong Fort of Traneker, which is well furnished with all manner of Military Ammunition. |
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LALAND or LAWLAND, Lalandia is separated from Seeland by the narrow streight of Gronesound or Goldersond (as it is written in some Maps) and from Falster by a much narrower Bay. This Island takes its name from its low Situation, and reaches about 32 English miles in Length, and 20 in Breadth, containing (according to the computation of Lyscander) four several Herrits or Lordships, [Gentes] and as many Cities or large Towns. It is also extreamly Fruitful, affording abundance of Corn and good store of rich Pasturage. |
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NASKAW or NACHSCOW is the chief Town of Laland, and its Fortifications are considerable; nevertheless it was storm'd and burnt, together with the adjoyning Monastery by the Lubeckers, in the Year 1510. but made a long resistance against the Swedish Forces in 1659. |
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NEWSTADT was once famous for a noble Monastery founded there A.D. 1286. and the Nunnery of MARIEBO mentioned in the Description of Sor was sometime as remarkable a place as any in the whole Isle of Laland. |
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FALSTER, Falstria lies Southwest from Monen, and is not above 16 English Miles in length, but is much celebrated for its Fruitfulness and plenty of Provisions, supplying not only its own Inhabitants with Corn, but also a great part of the Dutchy of Mecklenburg, and divers other Territories of Germany. |
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NICOPING is one of the most pleasant and best built Towns in the whole Kingdom, and on that account it is stiled by Dr. Heylyn the Naples of Denmark. It is distant 11 miles from Copenhagen to the South. |
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STABECOPING is a place of some Trade, chiefly caus'd by the Passengers that continually resort hither between Seeland and Germany. |
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MON, MEƲN, or MONEN is a Chalky Island lying to the North-East of Falster, about 30 English Miles in circuit, and serving for a good Landmark to the German Vessels that frequent those Seas. It was formerly annexed (as Lyscander informs us) to the personal Estate of the Danish Admirals, as a place thought to be most convenient of any within the whole Kingdom of Denmark for the residence of such an Officer. Indeed it defended it self better in the Year 1659. against the Attacks of the Swedes, than any of the larger Islands, as STEKOE its capital Town long before gallantly withstood the Lubeckers in 1510. and at last compell'd them to retreat. |
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ALSEN, Alsena a small Island lies over against the Bay of Flensburg, and is separated only by a narrow Frith or Arm of the Sea from the Country of Sleswick. It is extremely fruitful, pleasant and populous, containing 4 Towns and 13 Parishes, so that several thousands of stout Soldiers may be rais'd there upon occasion in a very short time. The places of greatest importance in this Isle are the Forts of SƲNDERBƲRG and NORBƲRG which have given Titles to two Dukes of the House of Holstein; the former of these was anciently the usual Seat of the Dukes of Sleswick, and is as yet one of the strongest Holds in the Territories of Denmark, having not long since resolutely sustained the Attacks of Wrangel the Swedish General, and even forced him at last to quit the whole Island. |
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The Island of FEMEREN, Femera aut Femeria is situated on the Coasts of Wagerland, and parted from thence by a very small Channel. Indeed this little Plot of Ground has been ever esteemed one of the Keys of Denmark on the side of Germany, and on that account King Christian IV. in the Year 1628. caus'd the most considerable places in it, more especially BƲRG, to be secured with strong Garrisons, and fortified the old Castles which had been slighted by some of his Predecessors. |
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The Island of BORNHOLM lies in the Baltick Sea, near the Continent of Schonen, and includes some small Towns that have often suffered Damage during the Wars with the Swedes, to whom it was surrendered by vertue of the Treaty of Roschild concluded between the two Northern Crowns, A. D. 1658. But the Danes have since redeemed it by the exchange of several Lands in Schonen. |
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WEEN is a small Island, situated in the streight of the Sound, between Seeland and Schonen, and was formerly famous for the Castle or Tower of Ʋraniburg, in which that Noble Danish Baron named Tycho Brahe frequently made Astronomical Observations, but it is now demolish'd and lyes Buried in its ruins. The same renowned Mathematician in like manner built a Dungeon call'd Stelliburg, beset with Looking-Glasses, and Chrystals, where he was wont to sit and observe the Stars in all Seasons. |
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SAMSOE, Samsoa aut Samos Danica, lies between Seeland and Jutland, almost over against the City of Arhusen to the East. It is an Island of a very small extent, yet has been lately erected into a County by Christian V. the present King of Denmark, in favour of Madam Mote Countess of Samsoe a Citizens Daughter of Copenhaguen, on whom this Prince has begot two Natural Sons. |
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OLDENBƲRG and DELMENHORST are two Counties in Germany that lye together, but are separated from all the rest of the King of Denmark's Dominions; the two Rivers, Elb and Weser, and the Dutchy of Bremen interposing between them and Holstein to the North-East; they are also bounded on the West by East-Friesland and the County of Embden; on the South by part of the Bishoprick of Munster; and on the North by the German Ocean. These Territories are enclos'd within the Circle of Westphalia, and extended about 35 English miles in Diameter. The Country of Oldenburg is for the most part flat and Moorish, much expos'd to the Inundations of the Sea; nevertheless abounds in rich Pastures for Cattle, and more especially affords Fodder to an excellent Breed of Horses introduced some Years ago by Antony Hunter, the last Count descended from Wittekind the first Duke of Saxony, whose Line entirely failing in the Year 1676. this County fell into the possession of the King of Denmark, who derives his Extraction from the Eldest Branch of the Counts of Oldenburg. Delmenhorst is situated on a higher ground, and beset with Woods. But the Nature of these Countries is shewn more at large in the Description of Germany. |
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A Chronological TABLE, shewing the Succession of the Kings of Denmark, since the year of our Lord 930. |
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The first Christian Monarch of this Kingdom. |
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{| class="wikitable" |
|||
| |
|||
|A. D. |
|||
|Years. |
|||
|- |
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|1. Harald VI. |
|||
|930 |
|||
|Reigned 50 |
|||
|- |
|||
|2. Suen, or Sueno II. |
|||
|980 |
|||
|34 |
|||
|- |
|||
|3. Canut, or Knute II. Sirnam'd the Great. |
|||
|1014 |
|||
|21 |
|||
|- |
|||
|4. Canut III. |
|||
|1036 |
|||
|9 |
|||
|- |
|||
|5. Magnus the Norwegian. |
|||
|1045 |
|||
|4 |
|||
|- |
|||
|6. Sueno III. |
|||
|1049 |
|||
|27 |
|||
|- |
|||
|7. Harold VII. the Idle. |
|||
|1074 |
|||
|2 |
|||
|- |
|||
| 8. Canut IV. |
|||
|1076 |
|||
|9 |
|||
|- |
|||
| 9. Olaus |
|||
|1085 |
|||
|10 |
|||
|- |
|||
|10. Eric III. |
|||
|1095 |
|||
|7 |
|||
|- |
|||
|11. Harold VIII. or Nicolas. |
|||
|1102 |
|||
|33 |
|||
|- |
|||
|12. Eric IV. |
|||
|1135 |
|||
|4 |
|||
|- |
|||
|13. Eric V. |
|||
|1139 |
|||
|8 |
|||
|- |
|||
|14. Canut V. |
|||
|1147 |
|||
|8 |
|||
|- |
|||
|15. Sueno IV. |
|||
|1155 |
|||
|2 |
|||
|- |
|||
|16. Waldemar I. |
|||
|1157 |
|||
|28 |
|||
|- |
|||
|17. Canut VI. |
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| 1185 |
|||
|18 |
|||
|- |
|||
|18. Waldemar II. |
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|1202 |
|||
|40 |
|||
|- |
|||
|19. Eric VI. |
|||
|1241 |
|||
|8 |
|||
|- |
|||
|20. Abel |
|||
|1250 |
|||
|2 |
|||
|- |
|||
|21. Christopher I. |
|||
|1252 |
|||
|7 |
|||
|- |
|||
|22. Eric VII. the Old |
|||
|1259 |
|||
|27 |
|||
|- |
|||
|23. Eric VIII. the Young. |
|||
|1286 |
|||
|35 |
|||
|- |
|||
|24. Christopher II. |
|||
|1321 |
|||
| 12 |
|||
|- |
|||
|25. Waldemar III. |
|||
|1333 |
|||
|42 |
|||
|- |
|||
|26. Margaret and Haquin. |
|||
|1376 |
|||
|37 |
|||
|- |
|||
|27. Eric IX. |
|||
|1412 about |
|||
|26 |
|||
|- |
|||
|An Interreign of Six Years. |
|||
|- |
|||
|28. Christopher III. |
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|1445 |
|||
| 3 |
|||
|- |
|||
|29. Christiern or Christian I. |
|||
|1448 |
|||
|34 |
|||
|- |
|||
|30. John |
|||
|1482 |
|||
|32 |
|||
|- |
|||
|31. Christian II. deposed |
|||
|1513 |
|||
|10 |
|||
|- |
|||
|32. Frederick I. the Pacifick. |
|||
|1523 |
|||
|11 |
|||
|- |
|||
|33. Christian III. |
|||
|1534 |
|||
|24 |
|||
|- |
|||
|34. Frederick II. |
|||
|1559 |
|||
|29 |
|||
|- |
|||
|35. Christian IV. |
|||
|1588 |
|||
|60 |
|||
|- |
|||
|Christian Elected. |
|||
|- |
|||
|36. Frederick III. |
|||
|1648 |
|||
|22 |
|||
|- |
|||
|37. Christian V. |
|||
|1670 |
|||
|Reigning |
|||
|} |
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</blockquote> |
Latest revision as of 02:04, 16 January 2025
Etymology and other names
History
Geography
Maps
Demographics
Economy
Culture
Government
Military
Education
Transportation
Notable People
Sources from old books
Sources from old books:
1635. Historia mundi: or Mercator's atlas. London. by Gerhard Mercator.
DENMARKE is a large and populous Kingdome, commonly called Danemarch, as it were the Countrie of the Danes. But whence the originall of the Danes came, they themselves doe not know: Some doe fetch it from Danus, their first King, and some from the Dahi, a people of Asia. Dudo de S. Quintino, an ancient Writer (as Camden reporteth) doth affirme, that they came out of Scandia into the ancient seats of the Cimbrians. But they seeme to be so called from the waters, because AHA with them signifies a River, and they doe call themselves Daneman (that is) as it were, River-men, or Water-men. All Denmarke is a Peninsula, as the Description sheweth, and is divided into 184 Prefectships or Provinces, which they call Horret, and they are governed by so many Prefects skilfull in the Danish Lawes. It hath a King rather by election of the Nobles, than by succession of birth: the ancient manner of chusing him was, that when they gave their voyce, they stood in the open field upon stones, devoting by the firme stabilitie of the stones under them, the constancy of their election. The Kings are crowned at Hafnia in the Church of the blessed Virgine Mary before the Altar, and are led into the aforesaid Church by the Senatours of the Kingdome, the ensignes of regality being carried before them, as the Sword, Globe, and Crown. Neither are these things attributed to speciall Families, as it is in most Countries, but as every one excelleth in vertue and dignitie, so is hee chosen to that place. First the King is compelled to sweare that he will observe certaine written Articles, and that hee will strictly defend the Christian Religion, and the Lawes and Customes of the Kingdome. Afterward hee is anoynted by the Bishop of Roeschild, and first the Crowne is set upon his head by all the Senatours, who then take their oath to his Majestie, if they have not done it before the Coronation, and then the King maketh out of the Gentry some Knights by the light stroke of a sword, for some service done either in peace or warre. Thus the ancient Danes did establish an excellent Politicall State and Monarchie, neither hath any Nation ever brought them into subjection, or tooke away their Country Rites and Priviledges. But on the contrary the Northerne people, as the Danes, Swedens, Norwegians, have wasted almost Europe, and in some places have established Kingdomes. For the expedition of the Cimbrians against Italie is knowne unto all Historiographers, as also the Gothes subjecting of Spaine, the Longobards establishing of a Kingdome in Italie, the Normans seating themselves in France, the erecting of the Kingdome of Naples and Sicilie, and the attempt of Godfride upon Freseland against Charles the Great. g 1.1 Canutus the Great, his holding five Kingdomes a long time. For he was King of Denmarke, Swethland, Norwey, England, and Normandy, and sonne in law to Henry the third Emperour, of whom these verses are yet extant.
Desine mirari quos garrula laudibus effertGraecia, quos jactat Roma superba duces. &c. Cease thou to wonder at those Captaines bold,Of which both Greece and Rome did boast of old.For now the Danish Land hath brought forth one.That is in vertue second unto none.By my atchievements I much fame attain'd,Five Kingdomes subject were to my command▪And me he chose his sonne in Law to be,Who was third Emperour of Germanie.My Iustice famous was, I shew'd the way,How powerfull Kings should their owne Lawes obey.
By which it appeares, as also by the following warres, which divers Kings of the Familie of the Oldenburgs happily waged, that it is a warlike Nation, and fortunate in vanquishing their enemies both by Land and Sea. The Noble men and Senatours of the Kingdome have a free power to elect the Kings, but for the most part they chuse the Kings eldest sonne, unlesse there be some sufficient cause for the contrary. However, they alwayes chuse one of the Royall bloud, and they doe not suffer the Kingdome to be divided, unlesse they be compelled thereunto by civill warres. They send the younger sonnes or brothers into other Countries, seeing they cannot participate in the government of the Kingdome: and hence it is that so many expeditions are undertaken by them. Moreover, seeing all the Nobles and Common-people cannot live conveniently in their owne Countrie, therefore they seeke out to get themselves a more fit seate. For the Northerne people have abundance of children, in regard of their abundance of bloud and heate; they are quarrellers and fighters, they drinke and eate much, (for the cold Ayre excites their appetite) and yet digest it well, whence it is that they live long; they are faire complexioned, of great stature, crafty and faithfull. And an argument, that they are long liv'd, is that their Kings have raigned very long, many of them thirty yeares, some forty, and some longer.
The Politicall government.
THere are five States or Orders in the Common-wealth of Denmarke▪ The first is of the Kings Familie, the second of the Nobles,* 1.2 among which there are neither Earles nor Barons, yet all of them can shew how their Nobilitie descended to them by a long pedigree of Ancestours. They carry Bucklers, which they will not change nor alter, because they anciently used them. There are some Families yet living, whose Ancestors were present at the Parley between Charles the Great, & Hemmingus King of Denmarke, upon the River Egidora or Eider, as the Familie of Vren and others. These hold their goods and lands in Capite, and they have free liberty to hawke and hunt in their owne lands, as the Counts have in Germany. Their goods are not feudatory, but hereditary. All the Castles, lands, and goods, as well moveable as immoveable, left them by their parents, are equally divided among the brethren: and the sisters by a speciall priviledge have a share also, yet so, that the brother hath two parts with the Castles and places of strength, and the sister but one. By this meanes the eldest sonnes have not much lands, yet some of them comming of a good Familie, and being endued with ver¦tue, through the Kings favour, doe advance themselves to great possessions by marriage. Out of this order the Senatours of the Kingdome are chosen, who are seldome more then 28. These Senatours have a certain allowance from the King and Kingdome, for they have Castles so long as they bee Senatours, for which they pay no rent to the King, but are charged to keepe certaine horses both in peace and warre, and whensoever the King calls them, they are to be ready at the proper charge of the Kingdome. If they be sent on any Embassage out of the Kingdome, they have allowance out of the Exchequer, that they may performe their journey in a Princely manner, as becommeth a Kings Embassadours. The other Nobles also have sufficient maintenance from the King, whether they live at Court or not. For the King hath lands which in the Danish speech are called Verleghninge or Benefices, and out of these hee giveth maintenance, either for terme of life, or for yeares, to those who have done him or the Kingdome any service. And those who hold these Benefices of the King, are charged to keepe certaine horses, and to pay yearely a certaine summe of money into the Exchequer, yet so as they may gaine something in reward of their labour and service. There is also a good Law & Institution in the Kingdome of Denmarke, whereby the King is prohibited and restrained from buying any immoveable goods of the Nobles, least any dissention should arise betweene the King and them. For otherwise the King might by violence take into his hands those lands which the Nobles would not sell: yet the King may change any immoveable goods with the Nobles, though on the contrary the Nobles cannot buy any of them of the Kings Farmers, many of which have hereditarie, and (as it were) free lands.
Here followes the names of the speciall Families of the Nobility, in the Kingdome of DENMARKE.
THe Lords of Kaas, the L. Guldensteen, the Lords of Munc, of Rosencrantz, of Grubbe, of VValkendorp, of Brahe, of Schram, of Pasberg, of Hardenberg, of Vlstant, of Bing, of Below, of VVepfert, of Goce, of Schefeldt, of Ranzow, of Schelen, of Frese, of Iul, of Bilde, of Dresselberg, of Green, of Brockenhusen, of Holke, of Trolle, of Knutzen, of Biorn, Schested, of Iensen, of Steuge, of Mattiesse, of Lunge, of Banner, of Luc, of Rastorp, of Krusen, of Fassi, of Lindeman, of Suvon, of Stantbeke, of Quitrowe, of Lange, of Gelschut, of Glambeke, of Krabbe, of Marizer, of Kragge, of Achsel, of Be•, of Ruthede, of Negel, of VVirfelt, of Split, of Ofren, of Appelgard, of Iuenam, of Poldessen, of Reuter, of Podebussen, who were all in times past Barons in the Dukedome of Pomerania, and some of whose Familie are still remaining there. Also the Lords of Vren, who lived in the time of Charles the great: Also the Lords of Bli•, of Galle, of VVogersen, of Bassi, of Solle, of Daac, of Bax, of Basclich, of VVensterman, of Hoken, of Lindow, of Bille, of Reutem, of Hundertmar•, of Heiderstorper, of VVolde, of Papenhaimb, of Spar, of Falster, of Narbu, of VVorm, of Bilde, of Bocholt, of Budde, of Swaben, of Santbarch, of Gram, of Lutken, of Vhrup, of Spegel, of Bammelberg, of Rosenspart, of Duve, of Hube, of Schaungard, of Must, of Gris, of Falcke, of Brune, of Laxman, of Duram, of Baggen, of Norman, of Goss, of Matre, of Rosengard, of Tollen, of Ronnoun, of Krimpen. Out of this Nobilitie is chosen the Praefect or Master of the Court, which is such an office, as the Governour of the Kings House in France: Hee dwelleth, for the most part, at Haffnia, being, as it were, the Kings Substitute, and doth dispatch matters as hee is directed by the King. Next to him is the Marshall, which in the time of warre and peace doth provide those things which appertaine to expedition. In the third place is the Admirall, which doth build new ships, repaire the old, and every year order the sea•matters, for the securing of the coasts. He hath under him an other Admirall appointed, and in every ship a Captaine, who must bee borne a Gentleman. There is also the Chancellour of the Kingdome, to whom out of all the Provinces and Isles they appeale and make suite unto, and from whom appeale is also made to the King and the Senate of the Kingdome. All the Provinces are divided into Haeret, as they call them, or into Dioceses, under which are many Parishes, heere, if there be any controversies, matters are first tried. And from hence they appeale to the Judge of the Haeret. Afterward to the Chancellour, and last of all to the King and Senatours, where it hath a determinate and finall Judgement. They have a written Law, composed by Woldemare the first, together with the Bishops and Senators, which is very agreeable to the law of Nature, and not much differing from the Roman Lawes; and that causes and suites may sooner have an end, and judgement be given and put in execution, It is provided that Judges, if they doe any wrong or give false judgement, are condemned to lose halfe their goods; whereof the King hath the one part, and the injured partie the other. Woldemare the first (except I be deceiv'd) added the Bishops to the Senators, whom Christianus the third, for rebellion and certaine other causes did put out againe. The Kings Chancellour, who for the most part followeth the King in the Court, hath seven or eight Noble men adjoyned unto him as Assistants, besides Secretaries and Clerkes; and all businesses are dispatch'd by the King himselfe. But if it be some matter of consequence, as concerning peace or warre, entring into league with forraine Nations, or into consultation concerning the defending of their owne Territories, then the King calleth a Councell of Senators. Neither can the King impose any taxe upon the Kingdome or Countrie, without their consent, and the consent of the Nobles. There is also in this Kingdome a Master of the Exchequer, who collecteth and gathereth all the Revenues of the whole Kingdome, both of Castles, Farmes, and Customes, as well by Sea as by Land. Hee taketh account of them, enquireth into them, and giveth acquittances for the receit of them. Hee hath two Assistants of the Nobilitie, and many Clerkes under him; and for his office hath a yearely stipend or pension.
The third State is of the Clergie, in which there are seven Bishops, as the Bishop of Lunden, the Bishop of Ro•schild, the Bishop of Otthon, of Rip, of Wiburg, of Arhuse, and the Bishop of Sleswich, to whom the other Canonicall persons have relation. These have the Tenths of the Kingdome; which in divers Countries are divided in a divers manner: for the Bishops have an halfe part of the Tenths, and the King an halfe part, the Canonists and Preachers have a part, and a part is contributed toward the building and repairing of Churches. And as concerning the Popes authoritie in this Kingdome, as also in France, the ordination of Prelates and Bishops have beene alwayes in the Kings power, as may appeare by the answer of Woldemare the first, King of Denmarke, which heere I have annexed. When the Pope required these and the like priviledges from the King, it is reported, that the King writ back unto him, Wee have our Kingdome from our Subjects, our life from our Parents, our Reliligion from the Romish Church, which if you will take from us, I send it you by these presents. And as the wise Decree of Charles the fifth is praised, prohibiting Ecclesiasticall persons from buying any immoveable thing without the consent of the King, so Christian the third as wisely did ordaine, that the Clergie should not sell any thing without the Kings expresse commandement. In other matters the Clergie-men through the whole kingdome are well provided for by Christian the third, of famous memorie, and many Schooles erected in many places, as also two in Iseland, where they have likewise a Printing-House. There is but one Universitie in the whole kingdome, called the Universitie of h 1.3 Haffen or Hafnia, founded by Christerne the first, by permission of Pope Sixtus, in the yeare of Christ 1470: which Frederick the second, although hee were seven yeares incumbred with the Swethish warres, did so enrich, that the yearely revenues thereof are very much.
The fourth State is of the Citizens and Merchants, dwelling in Cities and Townes. These have proper and peculiar priviledges which they enjoy, besides certaine fields and woods that belong to them; and these doe traffique both by Sea and Land in all parts of Europe. Out of these, as also out of the Countrey-people, the Bishops, the Canonists, the Preachers, and Senators of Cities, the Clerkes of Bands, the Lievtenants of Towres, and the Masters of Ships are chosen, and some of them are Masters of the Customes or Tributes; lastly, of these all lesser Councels of Justice doe consist, one of the Nobility, for the most part, sitting as President.
The fifth State is of the Rustick, or Countrey-people, and there are two sorts of them, the first they call Freibunden, that is, Free-holders. These doe hold Lands of Inheritance, yet paying for the same some little free-rent every yeare. These doe also use merchandise and fishing. They are not opprest with doing services, neither doe they pay any taxes, unlesse the Senators of the kingdome doe grant it as a subsidie.
The other sort is of those, who doe not possesse goods of inheritance, but doe farme them of the King, the Nobles or Ecclesiasticall persons, and are constrained to doe many services for their Lords, in such manner, as they shall covenant with their Land-lord. These are the chiefe things which I thought good to declare concerning the State politick of Denmarke; whereby it appeareth, that the Danish Monarchie was, for the most part, well framed: for the free election of the Kings being in the hands of the Nobilitie, and yet notwithstanding out of the royall Progenie, as wee said before: it followeth, that the Danes have no civill warres or dissentions, unlesse those which are betweene such as bee of the Blood Royall, which are quickly composed by the mediation and helpe of the Nobles; but especially seeing the Kings younger Sonnes can have no part of the kingdome. Moreover, as they are all stiled but Nobles, and know not the titles and names of Barons, Earles, and Dukes, so there are none that have so much wealth and power, as that reposing trust therein, they dare oppose themselves against the Royall Familie; because the Fathers Inheritance is alwayes divided betweene the Sonnes and Daughters. Thus the Kings of Denmarke have a flourishing Common-wealth, which may easily bee defended from forraine enemies, whom their Subjects, living in unanimity and concord with them as their naturall Lords, are able to resist both by sea and land.
DENMARKE is joyned only in two places to the Continent,* 1.1 on the West the Ocean beateth on it, on the East the Balticke Sea, on the North lyeth Norwey and Swethland, and on the South Holsatia, Megalopolis, and Pomerama. It hath many severall Islands lying by it. The temper of the Climate,* 1.2 together with the wholsomnesse of the Aire (that I may use Ioh. Coldingensis his words) doth make the Danes fresh complexioned. The fruitfulnesse of the Earth doth nourish them, the sweete harmony of Birds doth recreate them; their Woods and Groves, in which great numbers of Hogges do feed,* 1.3 and fat themselves with Akornes and Beech-maste, do refresh them; and the divers sorts of Cattle and flourishing Medowes do yeeld them much delight. The Sea doth afford them such plentie of provision, that the Danes thereby not onely furnish themselves,* 1.4 but also many other parts of Europe. In a word, they want nothing that is necessarie to life, so loving hath Nature shewed her selfe to this Countrie. Concerning the ancient Government thereof Munster writeth, that one Danus many ages before Christ, was the first King of Denmarke,* 1.5 from whom the other Kings of Denmarke did descend in a faire and orderly succession; therefore concerning the names of his successours, and the other Kings of Denmarke, read Munster, largely discoursing. All the Countrie of Denmarke having many armes of the Sea reaching farre into the Land, doth consist of many parts, the chiefe whereof are these Iutia, Fionia, Zelandia and Scania, besides the Islands lying neare to severall parts thereof.
Iutia, which some would have called Got•a, being heretofore the Seat of the Cimbri, is called by Historians and Geographers the Cimbrian Chersonesus, and is divided into the Southerne and Northerne Iutia. The Description of this Northerne Iutia you may behold in the second Table of Denmarke. Southerne Iutia, heretofore called Nordalbingia, doth containe the famous Dukedome of Sleswick to which the Dukedome of Holsatia may now be added, whereof you shall finde a more ample declaration in the third Table of Denmarke.
Also there followeth a more particular Description of Fionia, in the fourth Table of Denmarke.
Zeland, otherwise called Staland, and by some Authors Selandunia, is the greatest of all the Isles of Denmarke, which Olivarius and Ortelius thinke to be that Codanonia which Mela mentioneth. Others call it Zeland as if it were Sealand, because it is on every side encompassed with the Sea. Some would have it so called as if one should say Seed-land, because of its owne accord without any yearely manuring it is very fruitfull in bearing of corne. This Island is k 1.6 two daies journey long, and almost as much in bredth. It hath 15 Cities in it, & twelve royall Castles. But among the Cities the chiefe is Hafnia, which is the Metropolis or mother Citie of all Denmarke, and famous, not onely for the largenesse and wealth thereof, but for a convenient Haven, which the incredible depth thereof, and the lying of the Island Amaggor over against it doth make a safe Harbour to Sea-faring-men. This Citie, being an Universitie, affordeth a continuall supply of Doctors, learned Pastors, and Preachers for all the Churches of the Kingdome of Denmarke and Norwey. Above Hafnia is Helsingor called also Elseneur, and neare unto it the royall Castle of Croneburg of which we will speake hereafter: over-against this Castle on the other side of the Sea, there standeth another like unto it called Helsinborch or Hilsemburg with a Towne of the same name. Here Zeland and Scania do lye so neare together with their Promontories, as it were meeting one the other, that the Sea between them is scarce foure miles over, and is called De Sund, or the Sound. At this place all the ships that are bound toward the East, are compelled to come as to one common Center, and pay Custome to the King. And there being a Castle on either Shoare, the King when necessitie requires it, having placed his ships in the middle of it, can so shut up the mouth thereof, that he can restraine a great Navie either from entring in, or going forth; for sometime 200, and sometime 300 ships do arrive there together in one day out of divers parts of Europe. Here is also Roeschild heretofore the Seat of a Bishop, where are to be seene divers famous monuments of many Danish Kings and Dukes, now almost wasted and decayed. Beneath Zeland are the Islands following Amigria, Huena, Weem, Moenesland in which is the Citie Stegoa and many others. Zeland hath one Bishop, whose Seat the Prelate of Roeschild (as I said) did hold heretofore.* 1.7 Scania among all the Provinces of the Kingdome of Denmarke is famous for the largenes and wealth thereof. This some have called Scandinavia for Scondania, that is, the pleasant part of Denmarke, some Scania, and others Sconingia, commonly it is called Sconen. Pliny calleth it Scandia and Scandinavia, which hee falsly supposeth to be a very large Island. But Ortelius thinketh that this Scandia and Scandinavia which Pliny mentions was not Scania, but that Peninsula, which at this day doth containe three very large Kingdomes, Norwey, Swethland, and Gothland beside other Countries.* 1.8 This Scania is every where encompassed with the Sea, except it be where an arme of Land stretcheth out Northward, & from thence bending backe Eastward is joyned to Swethland: yet the deepe vallies and high Rocks which lye betweene these two Countries, make it to be so difficult a journey out of Scania into Gothland and part of Swethland, that it is easier to adventure to goe by Sea, than to undergoe the trouble by land. This Countrie is inferior unto none in the temperature of the Climate,* 1.9 the fruitfulnesse of the Earth, the conveniencie of the Havens, in Sea commodities, in fishing, in Lakes or Rivers, in hunting of wild beasts, in the inexhaustible veines of Gold, and Silver, Brasse, and Lead; in the frequencie of Townes, and in their Civile institutions. Whence, as Munster witnesseth,* 1.10 it still retaineth the name of Scandia. It was heretofore divided into two Dukedomes Halland and Bleking, now it containeth thre and twentie Prefectorships, & fifteene Cities. The Metropolis or chiefe Citie thereof is Londa or Londia, where the Archbishop of the Kingdome resideth. Here is also Malmogia, which is also called Ellebogen, being a famous Mart-towne, and the speciall Citie of the whole Countrie for Faires and continuall traffique, which the people of the Countrie do use there. In Halland is the Castle Warburg, built on the high tops of Mountaines. It was taken by the Swedens, and fortified with a Garrison of their owne in the yeare 1565, when Daniel Ranzovius by by the command of King Fredericke the second, did straitly besiege it, that at last it was enforced to yeeld it selfe up. This man famous for his vertues and valour was slaine in the yeare 1569. being shot through the head with a bullet sent from a brasse piece of Ordinance. Neare unto this Countrie are the Islands Landoe, Hannoe, and Bornholm, a famous Island divided into foure Prefectorships, and containing three Cities and one Castle. There is also Gotland, in which the ancient and once flourishing Mart-towne of Wisby is seated, but now the traffique being removed to other cities, it is decayed, both in Inhabitants, and wealth. Besides corne, with which this countrie aboundeth, it affordeth not only plentie of cheese, butter and divers sorts of skins, but faire firre trees, of which there are great woods for the making of masts for ships, and also lime and stone for building. The Rivers of Denmarke are Egidora, commonly called Eyder, which Ptolomy calls Chalusus. This River divides the Frizians from the Ditmarsians, and so discharges it self into the Brittish Ocean. The fish-full and navigable River Stora, (which arising in the inner part of Holsatia, watereth and washeth some Townes, together with the noble house of Brandenberg belonging to the Ranzovian familie, and afterward powreth it selfe ito the River Albis) and divers others. The r 1.11 Balticke Sea which wee have made to be the bound of Denmarke on the East, the Germans call it Oastzee, but the inhabitants doe now call it Belts from the Latine word Baltheus which signifieth a Belt or militarie girdle, because in manner of a girdle, it embraceth and encompasseth either Chersonesus. Tacitus seemes to call it Mare pigrum, that is, the slow Sea, from the effect, as Ortelius thinketh, because it is not moved as other Seas, for the Tides thereof are scarcely discerned, as they do affirme that have often sailed on it, and it floweth in a perpetuall course from East to West. Helsingera at the Bay of the Sund, hath the royall Castle Cronburg, being the defence and strength of the farthest Island from the shoare of Zeland. This Castle Fredericke the second King of Denmarke, did build with great cost, and raised it from the bottome of the Sea by laying many stones under water between woodden planks for a foundation; it is so strong and firme, that it despiseth the huge waves of the Sea with stormie weather rowles against it. There is in the Citie Lundis a very curious Clocke wherein much Art is expressed, called Saint Laurences clocke: and set up in the lower part of the Church, where it hath a Table of wood fastned to the wall distinguished with many circles of divers colours. In this clocke by certaine Indexes the present yeare, moneth, and weekes, also the particular day and houre of the day is represented to the eye, thereby are shewed the fixt and movable feasts, the motion of the two great Luminaries, the Sunne and Moone, their places in the Zodiacke every day, and their positions and aspects one toward another. And as these things appeare outwardly, by reason of certaine engines, and wheeles framed within to that purpose, So is there added a covering so made by Art, that as often as the Clocke strikes, two little Images like two Champions do meete together, & do give one another so many blowes as the Clocke striketh strokes. But that which is more wonderfull is this, in the middle of this Table, as it were in a Throne, is placed the Image of the Virgin Mary, holding her Infant in her armes: on both sides of her there are, as it were, two Gates, and before her feet a Theater of a semicircular forme, with the arch thereof turned toward the spectators, within there is a devise with the Images of the three wisemen, having every one their servant. The whole engine being turned as he pleaseth that keepeth it, straightway the Images come forth. And before the rest there comes as it were a threatning Herald, who brandishing his sword knocks at the left doare, that being open'd hee goeth forward while two Images seeme to blow two trumpets before him. He that is the first of the wisemen, walketh with a stately pace. But when hee commeth to the Virgin Maries Image hee reverently bends himselfe unto it, as if hee did adore her. And so also do the other two. The servants goe on without doing any obedience or making any shew of reverence, the last of them shutteth the right gate, that the sound of the Clocke when that is shut may be heard more plainly. But of this enough.
THE Westerne and speciall part of Denmarke is Iutia, commonly called Iutland, which Ptolemy calleth the Cimbrian Chersonesus, and Pliny Cartrin.* 1.1 This runneth forth Northward in manner of a Peninsula, betweene the Brittish and Germane Seas, as Italy doth toward the South. The Southerne bound thereof is the River Eydera,* 1.2 and it lyeth many miles in length from the River Albis or Elve, toward the North: The greatest breadth of it is not much. This Country is divided into the Northerne and Southerne part, as we have already spoken. The Northerne Iutia,* 1.3 called the Northerne Cimbrica, which is described in this Table, extending it selfe toward Norwey, doth over against Saga, a Towne famous in regard of the quick-sands and shallow Sea neare it,* 1.4 end in a straite and narrow forme like a wedge. This Country is broadest about the Market Towne of Aleburg, where Lymford winding it selfe into it, and passing almost through all Iutia Westward, parteth the Country Wensussel from the rest, except it be for a very little space, and so maketh it as it were an Island. This River being carried in a great channell, maketh many famous Islands by encompassing them about, and having many Bayes as it were, and severall branches, it doth divide and give limits to divers Provinces, Northerne Iutia is fertile in producing and bearing Fruits, Corne, Barley, and the like: It hath also in some places very fruitfull pastures. It aboundeth with so many heards of Oxen, and bringeth up so many Cowes, that it sendeth an incredible number of cattle into forreine Countries, and especially into Germany, whither there are yearely brought almost 150 thousand Oxen, besides Cheese, Butter, Tallow, and Hides. It doth bring forth an excellent breede of Horses, of which a great number are transported to other places. Iutia heretofore was subject to the Saxons, but not the other Northerne Coun¦tries. Out of this Country the Cimbri 150 yeares before Christs birth, came and fell upon Italie like an impetuous storme, to the great terrour thereof. For they having joyned to themselves the Tentons, the Tigurines, and Ambrones, conspired utterly to extinguish the Roman Empire Syllanus could not resist the violence of their first approach, nor Manilius their second on-set, nor Caepio the third. All of them were put to slight and beaten out of their Tents, insomuch as Florus thinketh they had beene quite undone and overthrowne if Marius had not lived in that age. This Cimbrian warre continued eight yeares after the Consulship of Syllanus, even to the fift Consulship of Marius, who at the R•ver Athesis, called by the Germanes Ets•h, and by the Italians •adica, did quite cut off their Army consisting of Cimbrians, Teut•us, and and Ambrones. But because in this place wee have by chance made mention of the Cimbrians, whose name is famous in Histories, we will speake somewhat more of them: and because Iunius a learned •an doth discourse most learnedly of them, I will not thinke it much to set downe his owne or other words to the same effect.
It appeares in Moses Bookes, saith he, that Iaphet had a sonne called Gomer, or by changing of a letter Gomer, which word signifies with the Hebrewes one perfecting a circle. But the genuine sense of the word, (hitherto unknowne to Writers unskilfull in the Cimmerian language, because none hath declared the obscuritie) will bee as manifest and cleare as the Meridian Sunne, if you gently breake the word in pieces. For what other thing does Go¦om her, being disjoyned, signifie in that language, or if you pronounce it Gomer, than I goe about in a circle, or I finish a perfect course? Hence also is that orbicular order of Artes, which the Grecian Writers call Encyclopedia, and Fabius the circle of learning, (because it is endlesse as a ring) called Gomera. Rightly therefore that auspicious name hapned unto the offspring of Iaphet, which spread themselves over the World, and as the name doth signifie, did finish that course that was given and prescribed to them by lot, having travell'd over all Countries from the rising of the Sunne to the setting thereof. For no man is so rude and ignorant in the knowledge of Historie, that knoweth not that the Gothes and Vandales (who were the ofspring of the Cimmerians or Cimbri) did possesse both the Hesperiaes. Wherefore, since by the consent of all men the Cimmerians did descend from Gomer, who at first did possesse the inward part of Asia, and being expell'd by the Scythians, repairing Westward did passe into Scandia, and from thence unto the Cimbrian Chersonesus, I see no reason how a more convenient name can bee given to Gomer the Author of the Cimbrian Nation, and to the people retaining their fathers name, tha• from the desire of circuiting and wandring about. For I thinke no man hath read of any Nation that hath travelled a greater circuit of earth, as Iosephus, an accurate Writer of the Iewish antiquities, doth perspicuously and diligently explaine when he writeth that the posterity of Gomer comming out of Armenia, did runne out into the River Tanais, and from thence with their multitudes, did overspread all Countries of Europe, as farre as the utmost coasts of the Gades. Plutarch in the life of Marius hath clearely explained the desire that was in that Nation to propagate and finish this their course when hee reporteth thus of them. The Cimbrians, as often as they change their seates, doe attempt the neighbour Countries by warres, yet not with a daily or continuall violence, but every yeare when the season serveth they make some inroade, and seeing there are divers and severall names of people amongst them, they call their troupes by a common appellation Celtoscythians. Some do report that there was no great company of Cimbrians, who were anciently knowne to the Grecians, but that some banished men or seditious persons, cashiered by the Scythians, passed from s 1.5 Maeotis into other parts of Asia under the conduct of Lygdamis: and that the greatest and most warlike part of the Nation did seate themselves on the outmost coasts of the t 1.6 Ocean, and did inhabite a darke Country, which in regard of the high and thicke woods, reaching even to the Forrest of Hircynus, was to the Sunne-beames inaccessible. Hitherto I have for the most part rendred his owne words: but I understand not whence Plutarch from the Germane Etymologie, or Festus Pompetus from the French, can prove that the Cimbrians were called theeves & robbers, unlesse wee take hired Souldiers for theeves and robbers, or unlesse it seeme that Plutarch did referre it to the manner of warring peculiar to that Nation, who did set upon their neighbours with secret ambushment and assaults like theeves, for he relates that Italy was strooken with feare by their fierce inrodes, when they understood that a Nation of no name or setled habitation, was like a sudden cloud of raine ready to fall upon their heads.
Hitherto Iunius. This Iutia is divided into foure large Episcopall Seats,* 1.7 into the Ripensian, which is kept at Ripen, the Arhusian which is at Arhusium, the Vandalican which is at Alburg, and the Wiburgian which is at Wiburg. The Ripensian Diocese hath 30 Prefectures, seven Cities, & ten royall Castles. Queen Dorothy the widdow of Christian the third erected and built a Schoole at Kolding, at her owne proper charge and cost. The Arhusian Diocese hath one and thirty Prefectures, seven Cities, and five Castles. Arhusium or Arhusen is a famous Mart-Towne, in regard of its Haven made by the great Promontorie of Hellen, which extendeth it selfe through the Country of Mols, from the royall Castle Kalloe, even to the high Mountaine •llemansbergh, and by its owne situation, and some Islands lying neare unto it, maketh the Sea very placable and calme for Marriners. Under this Diocese there are the Islands Samsoe, Hielm, Tuen, Hiarnoe, sometimes called Gerno, Hilgenes, and many other. The Vandalican Diocese, called also the Diocese of Burglaw, hath thirteene Prefectures▪ and sixe Cities. The most speciall parts thereof are Wendsyssel, Handharet, Thyland, and Morsoe. Wendsyssil or Vensilia, that is the Land or Seat of the Vandalls hath sixe Prefectures, three Townes, and one Castle. Here is the Mountaine Alberg, in which are certaine Monuments of Gyants, the adjacent Isles are Grysholm, Hertsholm, Tydsholm and others. In Handhaeret is a Rocke of great height, called Skarringelint, and on the coast thereof those two quick-sands, which they call Sandores and Brac••. The Isles subject unto it are Oland and Oxeholm. Thyland hath foure Prefectures, one Towne called Thystad or Tystet, where Christian the third built a Schoole for the nurture of Youth, and one Castle called Orumna. Under it are the Islands Hansholm, Ostholm, Iegen, Cifland, Egholm, Bodum. Morsia hath three Prefectures, the Citie Nicoping, the Castle Lunds•od or Lundgard, and an Island adjacent neare unto it, called Agero•. The Diocese of Wiburg doth containe sixteene Prefectures. three Cities, and as many Castles At Wiburg the generall Councell of the most Noble and wise Trium-vi••, concerning enquiring into, and judging of civill matters, is continued almost all the yeare, unlesse sometimes when they are wearied with that troublesome office, they refresh themselves, and recollect their strength in their owne Country houses.
Hither are brought the causes of all the Cimbrian Chersonesus, as complaints of bounds, controversies concerning inheritance, and all capitall causes, as slaughters, adulteries, thefts, poysonings, &c. Neare to the Peninsula Wenslia, where ending in a Cone, it bendeth by degrees toward the East, is that corner of Iutia, so perilous and fearefull to Marriners: for a great ridge of rockes runne so farre into the Sea, that those who would bee free from danger, come not neare to the shoare by 8. miles. Such also is all the Westerne shoare of Iutia, so that those who purpose to sayle into Norwey, or out of the Ocean Eastward, are enforced to take a large compasse to avoyde it: and to this purpose there are foure Mountaines on this shoare, which the Marriners observe as Sea-markes. The Inhabitants of this Country seeing they have no fit Haven for ships to ride in, draw them out of the deepe upon the shoare so farre, that the waves of the Sea by beating upon them cannot bruise them.* 1.8 In this Sea there is plenty of fish, and especially of Herrings; and therefore the Inhabitants use fishing much. These things being declared,* 1.9 I will adde something not impertinent to conclude this place withall, which is, that the people in these Northerne Countries have beene, and yet are cold and drie, of a large stature, faire complectioned, well coloured, merrie, jocund, suspitious, crafty, and provident in businesse, healthfull, proud, loving to their friends; they eate and drinke much, they digest well, and therefore live long, they abound with bloud, they are blunt in behaviour, and in regard of much heate about their heart, they are quarrellous and contentious, they love dangers, hunting and travelling, they are obstinate in defending their owne opinions, and yet mindefull of Justice, they are very docible and apt to attaine Languages, they are lovers of the Muses, and doe strictly performe their covenants and bargaines, they have many children, which the weomen with great difficulty bring forth; their woemen are also beautifull, and both wise and sparing in the government of their Familie: but they die for the most part of Catharres, the Kings evill, the Pleuricy, the Fistula, the Dropsie, or Ptisicke. Achilles Gassarus affirmeth that Guns were here first invented by a Monke.
SO much concerning Northerne Iutia, the Southerne followeth, which the Ancients did call Nordalbingia, because it is seperated and parted toward the North from the rest of Germanie, by the riverd 1.2 Albis. It containeth the two Dukedomes of Sleswick and Holsatia, of which wee will speake in order. The Dukedome of Sleswick taketh his name from the Metropolis and ancient Mart Towne of Sleswick. Heretofore this Countrie was called the Dukedome of Iutia, which Woldemare Nephew to Abel King of Denmark received to hold in fee of King Ericus, about the yeare 1280. But the Royall Line of the Kings and Dukes being extinct, and the Dukedome of Sleswick being thereby fallen to the Crowne,* 1.3 Margaret Queen of three Kingdomes gave it to Gerard Earle of Holsatia, on this condition, that hee should acknowledge to hold it of the King of Denmarke.* 1.4 The Cities which are subject to this Dukedome, because they have the same priviledge with other parts of Denmarke, therefore they have the same Lawes with them. The Subjects may appeale from the Sentence of the Magistrates of any place to the Princes and their Senators, and not farther, as it is provided by their priviledges. But the generall government of both these Dukedomes belongeth to the King of Denmarke, and the Duke of Holsatia by turnes. When it is devolved, and doth fall to the King, it is governed by his Substitute in his name. The chiefe Towne of this Dukedome is Slesvicum, commonly called Schleswick. It hath its name from a German word, in regard it is situated neere Slia, in the Bay of the Baltick Sea: for Wick signifies in the Saxon language both a Towne, and a crooked winding or Bay of the Sea, as Becanus hath observed in his Bookes of Gothish & Danish matters. Crantzius and those who have writ the Saxon Histories, doe give it an other appellation besides Sleswick, which is still in use with the Danes & Freeslanders: for they call this Towne in their language Heidebui or Heideba, because, they say, it was first built by a certaine Queene of Denmarke, whose name was Heth. It hath a convenient situation for traffick, and a convenient Haven for commerce and trading. Not farre from this Towne is seated the Castle Gotorpi. Heere is a famous Custome or Toll, for it hath beene observed, that in plentifull yeares, fifty thousand Oxen being driven out of Denmarke into Germanie, have heere beene paid toll for. There is also in this Dukedome, Flensburg, a famous Towne, lying among the high Mountaines, neere the shore of the Easterne Sea. It hath a Haven so convenient, deepe, and safe, that many of the Citizens may loade and unloade ships even at their owne doores. And heere are the Townes Husenum or Hussum, and Haderslebia. This Dukedome hath onely one Bishoprick, two Chapters, three Monasteries, and divers Castles belonging to the Prince and his Nobles. The order of Senators, whereof I have heretofore made mention,* 1.5 doth consist of the number of 24 persons of the Gentry, to whom is joyned a generall Chancellour, and two Doctors of the Law.
The Dukedome of HOLSATIA.
Some doe suppose, that Holsatia was so called from the many Woods and Forrests which are in it, for the Cimbrians and Low Germans doe call a wood holt: and some doe derive the Etymologie of the word from a hollow stone, because the Dukes of Holsatia were formerly called Dukes of the hollow Stone. It is bounded on the East with the River Bilena, on the West with Stora or Steur, on the South with Albis, and on the North with Eider.* 1.8 The Countrie it selfe is woody and full of Forrests, whence they have such store of fuell, that they are able to supplie Freesland with wood, when they themselves also doe keepe great fires. But although their woods are very spatious, so that they seeme to have no end, yet they seldome have any great Oakes in them, but are full of Beech-trees, with whose waste an innumerable sort of Hogges are fatted. The Land, for the most part, doth afford them every three yeares great store of fishing, and a very rich and plentifull harvest. For three yeares together it is tilled, sow'd, and mow'd, and three yeares afterward the Lakes are let in, to feede the fish and grasse, thereby a certaine fat and slimie matter is brought in,* 1.9 which doth fertilize the fields. This place beares neither Vines nor Olives; but there is much hunting of wilde beasts. And this Countrie doth breede a great number of horses. Holsatia is divided into foure parts, Dithmarsh, Holsatia, Stormaria, and Wagria. These were heretofore Counties, and afterward chang'd into a Dukedome, by Frederick the third Emperour, at the suite and request of Christierne the first, who now is charged to maintaine 40 horsemen, and fourescore foot, for the use of the Roman Empire. Dithmarsh at the first enjoy'd freedome and libertie for some hundred yeares;* 1.10 and albeit it were granted by the Emperour Frederick to Christierne the first in fee, yet it was not at that time subjected. Afterward his Sonnes, King Iohn, and Duke Frederick did undertake to make an expedition against it, in the yeare of our Lord 1500, but the Dithmarsians having overthrowne their Armie, defended their owne libertie, untill they were conquer'd & overcome by the Nephews of Christierne the first, namely Duke Iohn, Adolphus, and Frederick the second King of Denmarke, in the yeare of our Lord 1559. In Holsatia are these Cities, first Segeberg, in Wagria, a Countrie of Holsatia, 16 miles from Lubeck. 2, Itzohoa, a faire Towne in regard of the nature and situation of the place, and the resort of ships unto it. 3, Stormaria is encompassed, and, as it were, embraced in the armes of a fishie and navigable River, which arising in the inner parts of Holsatia, doth wash the wals of certaine Townes, and the noble Ranzovian House of Bredenberg, and afterward doth discharge it selfe into the River Albis. Heere is in this Countrie Chilonium, commonly called Kile, which is an ancient Towne, and hath a large Haven, in which (to the great commoditie of the Holsatians) divers sorts of merchandize are brought out of Germanie, Livonia, Denmarke, and Swethland. Also Krempe, and Reinholdsburg or Rensburg, the former taketh his name from the River gliding by it, the later from the first builder. Here are moreover Meldorp, Heiningsted or Henste, and Tellingsted in Dithmars, and Hamburg the Metropolis of Stormaria,* 1.11 a renowned Mart-Towne neere the River Albis, which after many devastations and calamities suffered in the warres, was at last reedified, and in the time of Henry the fourth Emperour, it began to be encompassed with wals, and to be beautified with three Gates and twelve watch-towres. In this Citie Albertus Crantzius, an eloquent and true Historian lived and was buried. This Countrie is full of Lakes, and especially Dithmars, whose Inhabitants (trusting to the benefite of their Lakes) did refuse to acknowledge obedience to the Kings of Denmarke, though of late they have beene compell'd thereunto. The chiefest River of note which watereth this Countrey is Egidora or the Eidera, there are also some others, the most whereof may rather be called Brookes or Rivulets than Rivers: but the B•ltick Sea, in that part where it washeth the Dukedomes of Holsatia and Sleswick, hath safe and pleasant Bayes, which are safe harbours for Merchants, and weather-beaten ships. In some places also it affordeth great store of fish, and especially of Salmons. It is a plaine Countrey, seldome raised with any mountaines, yet one it hath betweene Lubeck and Hamburg, of a pleasant situation, and famous for the ornaments of peace and warre, with which Henry Rantzovius did adorne it. It hath an ancient Castle seated on it, famous for the antiquitie and first builder thereof, and at the foote of the hill a Towne adjoyning to it. Heere are many woods, with which the Countrey of Holsatia is beset & replenished, but especially Dithmars, as the woods of Borcholt, Burgholt,* 1.12 Alverdorpenholt, Resenwalde, and many others. The Holsatians had heretofore 48 men, who were Presidents and Governours of the whole Countrie;* 1.13 to these they made their appeale out of the severall Parishes, and they did judge all matters. But they being subdued, and the Countrie now divided into two parts, in each of them there are twelve speciall and principall men, together with a Prefect, who, for the most part, is a Doctor or Licentiate at Law. These have all yearely pensions from the Princes, and they have a Clerke joyned to them, as also an Overseer or President out of the Holsatian Nobilitie. The one of these Prefects, which is for the King, is called the Prefect of Steinburg, and the other being for the Duke, the Prefect of Gottorpe. Yet the Subjects have leave to appeale or make suite to the Princes and Senators of either Dukedome, as well of Sleswick as Holsatia, but not further. They had heretofore a written Law, which now by degrees is changed, and reformed according to the Common Law, compiled by Henry Rantzovius the Kings Substitute,* 1.14 by Sigefrid Rantzovius, heretofore Lord of Nienhs, the Lord Adam Trazigeriu, and the Lord Erasmus Kirslemius, according to which Law all causes are decided, and punishments pronounced against delinquents & offenders.
Holsatia hath foure Orders or degrees of people: The Nobles, the Clergie, the Citizens, and the Countrie-men, whereof there are two kindes, for some possesse goods of their owne being hereditarie and free; others hired goods or lands, for which they pay rent and doe certaine services. The Nobles have Castles and Lands, together with the royalty of hunting, fishing, and hawking, which, for the most part, are hereditarie unto them. The whole Countrie hath not above 24 Families,* 1.15 whose names are mentioned in the Holsatian Chorographie, but divers Families there are that are descended from the same stock, as the Rantzovians doe at this time possesse an hundred and fiftie Castles, and divers other possessions. The Aleseldians and Powischians have almost as many. Holsatia hath one Bishoprick, namely Lubeck, for the Bishoprick of Hamburg is subject to the Bishoprick of Breme. The contentions which happen among the Nobles are judged by a Senate of Dukes, the Princes, for the most part, sitting Presidents in judgement as it is provided by their priviledges and Lawes. From the order of Senators any one putting in a sufficient caution may appeale to the Imperiall Chamber. The Citizens enjoy priviledges peculiar to themselves, and use the Roman Law, or else the Lubeck. The Subjects may appeale from the judgement of the Senate of their owne Citie, to the judgement of foure Cities, appointed to judge and determine of all speciall matters. From them againe they are permitted to appeale to the Princes and Senators of Holsatia, and also further even to the Imperiall Chamber, so that fit securitie be put in. Countri-mens cases or suites are pleaded by their Lawyers, even in the open fields, where are present the Noble-men thereabout, the Prefects, and two Assistants. There they come forth & doe make their appearance, who have any suit one against an other; the Defendant and Plaintiffe being both heard, the whole company or assemblie of Countrie-men are bidden to goe forth; and then their causes being diligently weigh'd on both sides, they returne againe, and the suiters being called in, they give sentence in their case according to Law and right.
So much according to our Method concerning the Dukedome of Sleswicke and Holsatia: Fionia followes with the Isles lying round about it. Fionia,* 1.1 commonly called Fuynen is the chiefe of all other Isles lying in the Bay of Codonus from Zeland. It taketh its name from the beautie thereof, both in regard of the forme and situation.* 1.2 It is separated from the Continent of Denmarke, by so small and narrow a Sea flowing between them, called Middlesar, that it seemeth almost to cleave unto the Continent. This Iland as it looketh on the West toward Iutia, so on the East toward Zeland. It is 48 miles in length, and 16 in breadth. The Land (that I may omit the Sea which is full of fish) is a fruitfull soyle,* 1.3 and very profitable to the husbandman. For it aboundeth with such plentie of corne, that it sends store thereof yearly to other farre Countries, especially Wheate and Barley. And the ground, albeit it be very fruitfull and endowed with the gifts of Ceres, yet it is never dunged. Whence the Cities and Townes thereof are annoyed with filthy smells of the dung of cattle, which is cast out, being thereof no use, as Munster writeth. This Countrie aboundeth with so many Droves of Oxen,* 1.4 and breedeth such a number of Cowes and Horses, that it sends yearly into Germany great Heards and Droves of them. And in regard of the many woods which are in the Island, there is great store of game for hunting, as Harts, Hares, and Foxes. In the middle of it is the Metropolis or mother Citie called Ottania, or Ottonium commonly called Ottensel being a Bishops Seat,* 1.5 built as it appeares by many testimonies by Otto the first, about the time when he compeld King Herald to receive the Christian faith. This Citie is a famous Mart for the whole Island, in which about Epiphanie or Twelfetide there is a great meeting of the Islanders and especially the Nobles, as there is at Kile in Holsatia. Fionia is divided into five and twentie Prefectures, sixteene Cities, and six royall Castles. The other cities are in a manner equally distant from Ottonia, which is as it were the Center, and are so built of the Sea shoare, that in regard of the conveniencie of the Havens, they traffique not onely in the Balticke Sea, but also exercise their negotiations throughout all Swethland, and Norwey, Russia, the Low-countries, and Germany: the chiefe amongst them are Niburch, Swynburch, Foborch, Assens, Bowens, Middlefart, or Milvart, and Kettemynde, or Cortemund. The chiefe royall castles are Newburg, Hagenschow, Hinsgagel, Eschburg, and the Court of Rugard. Here are many Villages, and not a few Noble-mens houses. For this Island in regard of the pleasantnesse of the Climate, and fertilitie of the soyle is much esteemed by the Nobles. The sea doth yeeld great plentie of fish, and every Bay is so full thereof, that ships or boats being over set with them can hardly saile or row against them, which yet they do not take with any fishing engines, but with their hands. Those who dwell by the Sea side, besides tillage and husbandrie, doe use fishing, both which do furnish thē with all things necessarie for house-keeping. There are some places in this Island famous for warlike atchievements done not many yeares past.* 1.6 For there is a certaine mountaine called Ochenberg, not farre from the Castle Hagenschow, in which Iohn Rantzovius Knight and Generall of the field, for King Christian the third, in a great battle did overthrow Christopher Count of Oldenburg, in the yeare of Christ 1530, on the eleventh day of June, in which conflict were slaine two Counts, the one being the Count of Hage, the other of Tecklenburg, whose bodies being afterward taken up out of the field were brought to Ottonia, and buried in Canutus his Church about the same time also on the Mountaine Fauchburg, which is 4 mile distant from the Towne Ascens, some thousands of the Rebels were slaine and put to slight. This Countrie is adorned with many woods in which are great store of wild beasts. In the citie of Ottonium there are two famous Temples or Churches, one consecrated to Canutus,* 1.7 the other to Saint Francis. In this latter Iohn King of Denmarke, and his sonne Christierne, when they had spent 37 yeares in banishment and captivitie, were buried in the yeare 1559: about the other is a large and spacious court-yard, in which the King of Denmarke did renew his ancient league of friendship, with the Dukes of Holsatia and Sleswicke, An. 1580, they report also that the mother of King Christian the second did place up a certaine Altar here belonging to the Minorite Friars, a wonderfull curious piece of worke carved in wood, the like whereof is not to be found in Europe.* 1.8 Out of this Island from the Towne Ascen• it is eight miles into Iuitland or Iutia, and from Nyburge into Zeland is a passage of sixteene miles long through the Baltieke Sea, which is very dangerous, especially if the Sea be rough, for when the East Sea being increased by the receit of many rivers is thrust forward with a violent course, it often happens that contrarie windes do raise such mightie waves, & make the sea so unquiet, that Mariners are many times to great danger drawne in with these gulphlike windings of the waters & sometimes swallowed up by them. And so much concerning Fionia: now let us passe to the other Islands. Under Fionia are contained ninety Islands situated toward the South, and the most of them habitable: the chiefe whereof are these: Langeland, Lawland. Falstre, Aria or Arr, Alsen, Tosing, and Aroe. Langeland is 28 miles in length. In it there is a Towne called Rudkeping, and Traneker a royall Castle, beside many villages, Parishes, and Noble-mens houses. Lawland is separated by the strait of Gronesand from Zeland, and by a small arme of the Sea from Falstre. It is so fruitfull in corne and filberd Nuts, that ship-loads are brought from thence into other Countries. It hath five townes which are these, Nistadt, Nasco, Togrop, Roth, and Marib: besides royall Castles, Noble-mens houses, many Parishes and Villages. Falstre is 16 miles long, and hath these two Cities Stubecopen, and Nicopen, which in regard of the pleasantlesse and beautie thereof is called the Naples of Denmarke Out of this Island neare a royall Pallace, there is a frequent passage into Germany, namely to Warnemund, which is 28 miles long. It furnishes neighbour countries every yeare with much corn. Arta being distant 6 miles frō Elysia, is cloathed with woods, and therefore assordeth much recreation for hunters, it hath three Parishes, and some Noble-mens houses, with the Towne & Castle of Coping. It belongs together with Elysia to the Dukedome of Sleswi•ke, and is under the government of the Duke thereof. Elisia or Alsa, commonly called Alsen, is an Island of a reasonable bignesse, for it is 16 miles in length, and 8 in breadth, being not farre distant from the Dukedome of Sleswicke, and looking toward the Bay die Flensburger Wick, it is parted by it from the first seat of the English. The Rantzovian Musaeum tells us that the Romans did call these Islanders Elisians. As also those who inhabit the next Island, Arians: which appellation or name they still retaine to this day, Ptolomie relateth, that the English were the ancient inhabitants of the Northerne Countries, by the Sea side: to which Tacitus addeth the Elisit, Arit, and the Mommy, whose names also are still used in the Islands Alsen, Arr, and Moen. There is a Towne in Alsen or Elisia called Sunderburg and a Castle of the same name, with other Townes, as Norborch, Osternholm, Die Holle, and Gammelgard. It hath thirteene populous Parishes, whence it can set forth many thousands of Souldiers. It is very wooddy, by reason whereof it affordeth Harts, and many kindes of wild beasts for hunting. It hath great store of Sea-fish and fresh-fish, and much wheat, and it is every where fit for feeding and pasturing of cattle. Tussing or Tosinga being the chiefe Isle among all the other Islands, lyeth neare unto a towne of Fionia called Swineburg, and is foure miles in length. In this Island besides Parishes, there is the Pallace of Kettrop, belonging to the Rosenkransians, and Rantzovians. Aroe is situated neare the Dukedome of Sleswicke where they passe to the Towne Alcens in Fionia by the Arsensian Bay, and hath foure Villages. There are also these Islands, Ramso, Endelo, Ebilo, Fenno, Boko, Brando, Toroe, Aggerins, Hellenis, Iordo, Birkholm, &c. Let so much suffice to have beene spoken concerning Fionia, and the Islands lying round about it. And now to conclude, I will here, rather then no where, adde unto the rest a Description of Huena or Ween seated in the Sound, in which is the Castle of Vraniburg, filled with many accurate and elaborate Astronomicall instruments, The middle of this Island, where this Castle standeth, hath the Pole elevated about 56 Degrees and 55, and is situate from the West 55 Degrees. It is in compasse 8160 paces, every pace being 5 foote, so that the whole circuit of it is equall unto two common German, 18 English miles. This Island being placed in the most famous strait of the whole Kingdome through which many ships saile out of the Easterne into the Westerne Sea: and on the contrarie with a gooly prospect hath in view many chiefe Townes of this Kingdome, which stands as it were round about it; in Zeland Hasnia, 12 miles distant from it South Southwest, also Helsinger, (where those ships that saile or passe by, do pay custome or tribute) and the Castle Cronaburg both distant from it on the Northwest 8 miles, Helsingburg which lies on the shoare of Scania, is as farre distant from it toward the North, and on the same shoare is Landskrone being foure miles from it: toward the East lyeth Lunda or Londen, which although it be not a Sea-towne, yet is but 16 miles distant from hence. And although the Island be not very great,* 1.13 yet no part of it is barren or unfruitfull, but produceth great store of fruit, and aboundeth with cattell, it bringeth forth Does, Hares, Cunnies,* 1.14 and Partridges in great plentie, and is very convenient for fishing. It hath a wood of Hasell trees, which are never worme-eaten, but hath no Dormise. Heretofore it was remarkable for foure Castles, whose names do yet remaine, Synderburg, which was seated on the Southerne shoare, Norburg on the opposite Northerne shoare. Karheside which stood toward the East side of the Island, and Hamer toward the West, the foundation of these foure Castles may be yet seene, but there are no ruines thereof remaining. This Island lyes very deepe in the Salt-sea, and yet it hath many fresh Rivers and Springs, among which there is one Spring that never freezeth with the violence of the Winters cold, a strange thing in these Countries.
1682. Cosmography and geography in two parts by Richard Blome.
DANEMARK, which comprehendeth the Kingdoms of
- DANEMARK; whereof the principal parts are
- The Peninsula of JUTLAND, as it is divided into four Bishopricks and two Dutchies; to wit,
- Ripen,
- Ripen,
- Rolding.
- Arhusen, — Arhusen.
- Alborg,
- Alborg,
- Scagen.
- Wiborg, — Wiborg.
- Sleswick,
- Sleswick,
- Flensborg,
- Hussen,
- Hadersleben,
- Friderickstad,
- Sunderborg.
- Holstein, or Holsace,
- Kiel,
- Segeberg,
- Krempe,
- Meldorpe,
- Gluckstad,
- Lubeck,
- Hambourg,
- Borg in Femeren.
- Divers ISLES, the chief of which are
- Seland, or Zeland,
- Cop•nhagen,
- R•schilt,
- Elsenno•r,
- War•org.
- Fuinen,— Otrensoe.
- Falster, Nicopen.
- Gotland, Visby.
- Osel,— Arensborg.
- The Coast of GOTHLAND; where are the Provinces of
- Halland,
- Halland,
- Helmstad,
- La Holme.
- Bleckinge,
- Christianople,
- Christianstad,
- Elleholm.
- Sconen, or Scanja,
- Lunden,
- Elsenborg,
- Landscron,
- Malbogen.
The Kingdom of DANEMARK, as it is composed of three Parts, to wit,
- The Peninsula of JUTLAND, or JUTIE, as it is divided in
- North JUTLAND; where are the Bishopricks of
- Ripen,
- Ripen,
- Kolding,
- Weel,
- Warde,
- Rinkoping;
- Hostebro.
- Arthusen,
- Arthusen,
- Kalla,
- Hersens,
- Randersen,
- Ebelto,
- Grimastad,
- Hobro.
- Albourg, with its parts of
- Thyland, — Albourg.
- Hanheret, Thystad.
- Morsee, Nycopin.
- Venyssel,
- Selby,
- Scagen,
- Hirring.
- Wibourg,
- Wybourg,
- Lemwick,
- Holcker.
- South JUTLAND; where are the Dutchies of
- Sleswick,
- Sleswick,
- Hussen,
- Stenberg,
- Hadersleben,
- Flensborg,
- Gottrop,
- Ekelenford,
- Appenrade,
- Frederickstad,
- Holstein, or Holsatia, with its parts of
- Holsatia,
- Kiel,
- Rendesborg,
- Wilstet,
- Nienmunster,
- Borg en Femeren.
- Wagrie,
- Lubeck,
- Segeberg,
- Odesloe,
- Niestat,
- Oldenborg.
- Stormarch,
- Hambourg,
- Krempe,
- Bredenberg,
- Gluckstad,
- Tychenberg,
- Dilmarch,
- Meldrop,
- Heide,
- Lunden.
- Divers Isles,
- About the BELT, and between the Lands of DENMARK, as
- Zeland, or Seland,
- Copenhagen,
- Roschilt,
- Elsenour,
- Warborg,
- Fredericksbourg,
- Ringstede,
- Holbeck,
- Slages,
- Corsroer,
- Nestwede.
- Fuinen, or Fionie,
- Osell,
- Niborg,
- Swinborg,
- Kartemunde,
- Woborg,
- Assens,
- Bowens.
- Fimera, — Petersborne.
- Alsen,
- Osterholme,
- Gammelgard,
- Norbarch.
- Tusinge, — Niburg.
- Huen, — Vramburg.
- Arroe. — Koping.
- Longland, — Rudkoping.
- Laland,
- Maxcow,
- Rodby,
- Maribo.
- Falster,
- Nikoping,
- Stubekoping.
- In the BALTICK Sea, and between the Lands of SWEDEN; as
- Bornholme,
- Nex,
- Rattenby,
- Sunneckier.
- Gothland,— Visby, or Wisby.
- Oesel, — Arensborg.
- The Coast of GOTHLAND, or GOTHIE, to wit,
- WESTRO-GOTHLAND; where is the Province of Hallandis,
- Warborg,
- Lattolm,
- Helmstad,
- Falkenborg,
- Hallandia.
- OSTRO-GOTHLAND; where are the Provinces of
- Scania, or Sconen,
- Lunden,
- Helsinborg,
- Christiana,
- Malbogen, or Ellegeboges.
- Bleckinge, or Blekingea,
- Trelborg,
- Usted,
- Malinogia,
- Colmar,
- Christianople.
THe Estates of DENMARK contain two Kingdoms, to wit, DENMARK and NORWAY. Denmark is between the Ocean and the Baltick Sea, composed of a Peninsula contiguous to Germany, and of a Coast contiguous to Sweden; and of divers Isles which are between the Peninsula and Coast; some likewise in the middle of the Baltick Sea, and near Livonia. It is scituate partly in the Northern Temperate Zone, and partly within the Artick Circle, extending from the 55th degree of Longitude, or the middle Parallel of the 10th Clime, where it joyneth to Germany as far as 71 degrees, where it is bounded by the Frozen Ocean, the longest day in the most Southern parts being 17 ¼ hours; but in the most Northern parts they have no Night for almost three Months: whereas on the other side, when the Sun is in the other Tropick; and most remote from them, they have no Day for the like time▪ This Country is very cold, and consequently not over fertil, nor affording good Fruits. The Commodities that this Kingdom affords are Fish, Hides, Tallow Furniture for Shipping, as Pitch, Tar, Cordage, Masts, &c. also Firr, Boards Wainscot, several sorts of Armour, &c.
- 2.73The Inhabitants for the most part are of a good statute and complexion, very healthful, ingenious, and of a ready wit, very punctual in performing their Promises, proud and high conceited of their own worth, lovers of Learning, as may appear by those Famous men it hath bred, viz. Tycho Brahe, the great Mathematician; John Cluverus, the renowned Philosopher and Physitian; Godfrey Gottricus, that stout Warriour, who not only setled the Government of this Kingdom, but also shook the Realm of France; likewise Waldemare, Christiern the Second and Fourth; Canutus and Sueno, which two last were the Conquerors of England. They are great punishers of Offenders, especially Theft and Piracy; their Women are of a comly grace, very fair, and as fruitful in Children; discreet and sober.
The Peninsula called JƲITLAND, once Cimbrica Chersonesus,* 2.74 from the Cimbrians its ancient Inhabitants: it is divided into North and South Juitland.
North JƲITLAND is severed into the Bishopricks of Ripen, Arthusen, Albourg, and Wibourg.
- 2.75RIPEN contains 30 Prefectures or Herets, (as they term them) 7 Cities or walled Towns, and 10 Castles. Its chief places are 1. Ripen, seated near the German Ocean, the chief place of the Diocess, and dignified with an Episcopal See: 2. Kolding, seated on a Creek of the Baltick Sea; 3. Weel, 4. Warde, &c.
- 2.76ARTHƲSEN containeth 31 Prefecture, 7 Cities or walled Towns, and 5 Castles. Its chief places are 1. Arthusen, seated on the Baltick Sea, having a commodious and well frequented Port, and dignified with an Episcopal See. 2. Kalla, a strong place, seated in a large Bay, reaching two Dutch miles to the high Hill of Elemanberg; opposite to which lie the Isles of Hilgones, Tuen, Samsoe, Hiarneo, and Hiolm, &c. 3. Horsens, 4. Randersen, 5. Ebelto, and 6. Hobro.
- 2.77ALBOƲRG, which is divided into four parts, viz. Thyland, whose chief Town is Albourg, seated on the Bay of Limford, which, opening into the Baltick Sea, extendeth it self through the main Land, almost to the German Ocean. 2. Hanebert, on the North-west of Limford Bay, containeth 4 Prefectures, and hath for its chief place Thystad. 3. Morsee, lying on the Ocean, contains 3 Prefectures, the Isle of Ageroe, the Town of Nicopin, and the Castle of Lunstead: and 4. Vensyssel, according to Mercator, Vandalorum sedes, or the Seat of the Vandals, contains 6 Prefectures, 3 Towns, and 1 Castle, viz. Selby, Cagen, and Hirring.
- 2.78WIBOƲRG contains 16 Prefectures, the Isles of Egholm, Hansholm, Bodum, Idgen, Cisland, and Ostholm; also it hath 3 Castles, and as many Cities or walled Towns; viz. 1. Wibourg, dignified with an Episcopal See, and the Courts of Judicature for both the Juitlands. The point of Scagen, or Scean, ends this Peninsula towards the North. 2. Lemwick, and 3. Holcker.
South JƲITLAND is divided into the Dukedoms of Sleswick and Holstein.
SLESWICK, a Country for the most part level, * 2.79 enriched with fertil Fields both for Corn and Pasturage; it is very well provided with good Bays on the Baltick, which are found commodious for Merchants. The chief places in this Dukedom are, 1. Sleswick, seated on the Slea, which falls into the Baltick, where it hath a commodious and well frequented Haven; it is a fair Town, the chief of the Dukedom, and honoured with an Episcopal See. 2. Hussen, seated on the German Ocean: 3. Sternberg, the ordinary residence of the Governour for the King of Denmark; 4. Hadersleben, seated on a navigable In-let of the Baltick, and fortified with a strong and fair Castle: 5. Flensborg, seated on the Baltick amongst high Mountains, having a Port so commodious and deep, that Ships do lade and unlade close to their Houses: and 6. Gottrop, where there is a strong Fort belonging to the Duke of Sleswick, seated at the end of a large Bay of the Baltick, of note for the Custom-house or Tole-booth there, erected for Cattle, sent out of these parts into Germany.
- 2.80HOLSTEIN, or HOLSATIA, a woody, low and Marshy Country; is severed into the Parts of Holsatia especially so called, Wagrie, Stormarch, and Dilmarch.
HOLSTEIN, or HOLSATIA, hath for its chief places 1. Kiel, seated on a navigable Arm of the Baltick, where it hath a large Haven, being a Town of a good Trade. 2. Rendesborg, said to be the strongest Town in all the Province; 3. Wilsted, and 4. Nienmunster.
WAGRIE hath for its chief places, 1. Lubeck, an Imperial and free City, enjoying the priviledges of a Hans-Town; it is pleasantly seated on the confluence of the Billew, and on the North-banks of the Trane, severing it from Germany, and empty themselves into the Baltick, being capable to receive Ships of a great burthen, which they lade and unlade at Tremuren, the Maritim Port, at about a miles distance; it is built on all sides upon a rising Hill, on the Summit whereof is placed a fair and beautiful Church called St. Maries, being the Cathedral, from whence, on an easie descent, there are Streets which lead to all the Gates of the City, which afford a fair prospect to the Eye; besides which, it is adorned with 9 other Churches, one of which being a decayed Monastery, is converted to an Armory to keep their Ammunition for War. It is about 6 miles in compass, encircling within its Walls divers fair and uniform Streets, beautified with good Brick-buildings, is very populous, and well inhabited by Citizens and Merchants, who drive a considerable Trade on the Baltick Seas. But this City, as also Hamburgh, is esteemed rather part of Lower Saxony in Germany, where I have also treated of them. 2. Segeberg. 3. Odesloe, 4. Niestad, and 5. Oldenborg.
STORMARCH hath for its chief places, 1. Hambourg, an ancient City built by the Saxons, since made an Imperial City, enjoying the Priviledges of a Hans-Town, seated on the North-banks of the Albis, which divides it from Germany, of which it is reckoned a part or member, and there treated of in the description of the Lower Saxony, to which I refer the Reader. 2. Krempe, seated on a River of the same name, which emptieth it self into the Store; a strong and well fortified Town, being reckoned for one of the Keys of the Kingdom. 3. Bredenberg, a Town of great strength, belonging to the Rantzoves: 4. Gluckstade, seated on a Bay or Creek of the German Ocean, and therefore well fortified, to command the passage up the Elbe: and 5. Tychenberg, seated on the Elbe, being so well fortified, that it is now held the strongest Town in this Kingdom.
DILMARCH or DITMARCH, hath for its chief places, 1. Meldrop, seated on the Sea; a place of some account, and the chief of the Province. 2. Heide, and 3. Lunden, a Haven Town, seated on the Eider, which rising in this Peninsula, here emptieth it self into the Ocean.
The BALTICK ISLES.
THese Islands which are between Juitland and the Coast, and farther in the Baltick Sea, are in number 35, and are so called, as being dispersed in these Seas. The Baltick Sea begins at the narrow passage called the Sound, and interlacing the Countries of Denmark, Poland, Germany, and Sweden, extendeth to Livonia and Lithuania. The reason (according to the Opinion of many) why this Sea, which is so large, doth neither ebb nor flow, may be as well from its Northern scituation, whereby the Celestial influences have the less predominancy, as also from the narrowness of the Streight, which receiveth the Ocean. The chief of these Isles I have set down in the Geographical Table of this Kingdom, of which a word or two, and first with Zeland.
ZELAND, anciently Codanonia, from the Codani its Inhabitants; * 2.81 the Isle is very fertil, the greatest and of most importance of any in the Baltick, to the King of Denmark, as lying not above three miles from the main Land of Scandia, which narrow Streight is called the Sound, through which all Ships must pass that have any Trade into the Baltick, all paying to the said King a certain Toll, according to the bigness or Bills of Lading, by which ariseth a great Revenue unto him; and for the security of this passage there are built two exceeding strong Castles, the one in this Isle, called Cronenberg, and the other in Scandia, called Hilsemberg, of which more anon. In this Isle are 7 strong Castles, and 13 Cities or walled Towns; the chief of which are 1. Copenhagen, or Haffen, the chief of the Isle, seated near the Sea, having a commodious Port; it is built orbicular, of a good strength, being defended by a powerful Castle; its Houses are but meanly built, yet it hath a spacious Market-place, and is dignified with the residence of the King for the Winter season; whose Palace is built of Freestone quadrangular, but of no great splendor, as also with the only Ʋniversity in the Kingdom. 2. Elsenour, seated on the Sea side; of it self but a poor Village, were it not for the great resort of Sea-men in their passage through the Sound into the Baltick, this being the place where they pay their Toll; and in this Village is the stately and well fortified Castle of Cronenburg, built in the very Ocean, and bravely resisting the fury of its Waves; now the ordinary residence of the King, being a pleasant prospect into the Sea; on the South-side of this Castle is a large and commodious Road for Shipping. 3. Roschilt, once a rich City, now only famous for being the Sepulchre of the Danish Kings, where, in the Cathedral Church, they have their Tombs; it is also dignified with the See of a Bishop. 4. Fredericksbourg, a Fortress built in a pleasant Plain, often visited by the King in his retirement, where he hath a delightful House seated in a Park. 5. Warborg, 6. Ringstede, 7. Holbeck, 8. Slages, &c.
FƲINEN, or FIONIE, seated betwixt Zeland and Juitland,* 2.82 and almost joyning to the Main-land; it is of a fextil Soil, and pleasant scituation, being in length about 12 Dutch miles, and 4 in breadth. Its chief places are 1. Osel, or Ottonium, so called from Otho the Great, who founded here an Episcopal See, seated in the midst of the Isle, from which the other Towns are of an equal distance, which renders it very commodious for Traffick; it is not large, having but two Churches, and its Buildings are neat and ornamental enough. 2. Niborg, 3. Swinborg, 4. Kartemunde, 5. Woborg, and 6. Ascens; all, or most of them seated on some convenient Creek or Haven.
FIMERA, a very fertil and well peopled Isle; * 2.83 and here it was that Tycho Brache, the famous Mathematician, built an Artificial Tower, in which are (or were) many rare Mathematical, Instruments; its chief place is Petersborne, of some importance to the King of Denmark.
ALSEN, a small Isle appertaining to the Dukedom of Sleswick;* 2.84 is very populous, contains 13 Parishes, and 4 Towns, viz. Osterholme, Gammelgard, Norbarch, and Sunderburg; dignified with the residence of the Duke of Sleswick.
TƲSINGE, a very small Isle, * 2.85 and of no great account by reason of its dangerous scituation; its chief place is Niburg.
ARROE, a small Isle belonging to the Duke of Sleswick;* 2.86 it contains three Towns, the chief of which is Koping, fortified with a Castle so called.
LONGLAND, an indifferent long Isle, but not very broad; * 2.87 its chief place is Rudkoping, of some account.
LALAND, not far distant from Zeland; abounds in Corn and Chesuuts,* 2.88 fraighting therewith many Vessels yearly; it is very populous for the bigness, contains 3 Towns, viz. Maxcow, Rodby, and Maribo; besides a great many Villages and some Castles.
FALSTER, a small Isle, fertil in Corn, seated near to Laland;* 2.89 its chief places are Nikoping, of a pleasant scituation; and Stubekoping.
In the Baltick, and between the Lands of Sweden, are also several Isles the chief amongst which are BORNHOLME,* 2.90 seated not far from Gothland, an Isle very fertil, feeding abundance of Cattle: It hath many goo• Towns and Villages, the chief of which are, Nex, Rottonby, and Suomneckier.
GOTHLAND,* 2.91 an indifferent large Isle, in form round and narrow, no• in the possession of the Swedes: It yields white Marble, excellent for building; the City of Wisby, seated in the midst of the Isle, was once so famous fo• Traffick, that it gave Maritim Laws to the Baltick Sea.
That which the King of Denmark possesses, as particularly belonging to tha• Crown, on the Coast of Scandinavia, is part of the ancient Gothland; th• most Southern of which that we are now treating of, is divided into Westro-Gothland and Ostro-Gothland; which are again subdivided into the Provinc• of Hallandia, which takes up Westro-Gothland; and into the Provinces o• Scania and Blecking, which takes up Ostro Gothland; and first of Hallandia.
HALLANDIA,* 2.92 now in the possession of the Swedes; this Country o• Province for fertility of Soil, sweetness of Air, store of Fish, plenty of Lea• and Brass Mines, and thickness of Towns and Villages, which are well inhabited, is not inferiour to any. Its chief places are 1. Warborg, seated on th• Sea-shoar, and defended by a strong Castle, built on the summit of a Hill, s• that it hath a great command over the Country. 2. Laholm, 3. Helmst••▪ 4. Falkenborg, and 5. Hallandia, or Katterop.
SCANIA,* 2.93 or SCONEN, hath on the North Hallandia, and on all othe• parts, the Sea; also now in the Swedes possession: It is about 70 miles long and 48 broad; the pleasantest Country in all Denmark, most abundant i• Fruits, and richest in Merchandize, and on the Sea-side are sometimes such great sholes of Herrings, that they are found troublesom to Vessels. Its chie• places are 2. Lunden, an Inland City, dignified with the sole or Metropolita• Archbishop of Denmark; the chiefest beauty in this City is the Cathedra• Church, a magnificent Structure, beautified with excellent pieces of Art, th• chief whereof are the Clock and the Dial: the Clock being so composed b• Artificial Engines, that whensoever it striketh, two Horsemen give one another as many blows as the Clock striketh times: also upon the opening of 〈◊〉 Door there is represented a Theatre, where the Virgin Mary is seated on 〈◊〉 Throne with Christ in her Arms, to whom the three Kings, with their sever• Trains, come in order, and with reverence present their Gifts to her, during which time two Trumpeters continually sound. And next the Dial, wher• the year, month, week, day, and hour of the day throughout the year, as also the motions of the Sun and Moon through each degree of the Zodiack; th• moveable and fixed Feasts, &c. are to be distinctly seen, being neatly set for•• in variety of delightful Colours. 2. Helsinborg, fortified with an impregnabl• Castle, and one of the Forts defending the Sound: 3. Christiana, a place 〈◊〉 great strength; and 4. Malbogen, a Port-Town, opposite to Copenhagen.
BLECKLINGE,* 2.94 also belonging to the Swedes, hath on the East an• South the Baltick Sea: It is a Mountainous and barren Country, and hat• for its chief places 1. Malinogia, the Birth-place of the famous Mathematicia• Gaspar Bartholinus, who was said to be the inventer and maker of the afore said Clock and Dial. 2. Colmar, an important Fortress against the Swedes until they gained the Province.
The Soil of Denmark is naturally better for Pasture than Tillage, and feed such multitude of Oxen, that at least 50000 are said to be yearly sent hence t• Germany. Their other Commodities are Fish, Tallow, Furniture for Shipping Armour, Ox-hides, Buck-skins, Wainscot, Fir-wood, Furrs, Pipe-staves Copper, Wheat, Rye, &c.
1685. Geographia universalis: the present state of the whole world by Pierre Duval.
Of Denmark.
THE Danes make the Name of their Country come from Dan, one of the Successors of Noah. They make all their Kings to descend from him to Christian the Fifth, now Reigning, Grandson of Christian the Fourth, who had the happiness to sway the Scepter above sixty Years. The King of Denmark commands Countries of vast extent, which for the most part are cold, by reason of their Situation towards the North, full of Mountains and Woods, and Ice and Snow. Of this Number are the Kingdom of Norway, Greenland, the Isles of Island and of Fero. Towards the North of America, there be some Lands which bear the Name of New-Denmark: Some Fortresses in Guinea, Krankebar in Coromandel, in the East-Indies, acknowledg subjection to his Majesty of Denmark. What is particularly comprehended under the Name of Denmark, is the best inhabited, the finest and the most fertile. It is an Hereditary Kingdom since the Year 1660. before, it was Elective; the Nobility being now stript of the Prerogative it formerly possessed. The King of Denmark styles himself Count of Oldembourg and Delmenhorst, as the Eighth King of that Family, into which the Crown of Denmark came in the Year 1448. by the Election of Christian I. He is now in possession of it, and caused to be built there, in the Year 1681. a new City, with a Sea-Port, under the Name of Christiana. The Opinion of Luther is followed in Denmark since the Reign of King Frederiek, Elected in the Year 1523. There is no great Trade drove in Denmark, but there is a fine Revenue arising from the Customs which the Merchandizes pay, that pass through the Streight of the Sound, the Key of the Baltick-Sea. This Streight is a Mile in breadth, and the Course which the Ships there steer, with the most safety and conveniency, is nearer Cronembourg, than Elsenbourg, which belongs to the Crown of Sueden. This Revenue is no longer so considerable, since the Suedes do not pay there now what they did formerly: and it would be less, if the design was brought about, that has been entertain'd, of joyning the Baltick Sea to the Elve, by the Lake of Swerin, if the transportation of Commodities be continued by Land from Hambourg to Lubeck, and if the Elector of Brandenbourg brings to perfection the Chanel, which he has begun at Mulras, for the transporting the Merchandizes of Poland and Silesia, from the Oder into the Elve. Ships of ordinary Bulk, which take their way through the Streight of the Belt, cast Anchor before Nibourg, and there pay the Impost. This Streight is broader, but not so deep as that of the Sound, by which means the Sea is there very rough: the great Ships meet with several Islands there, and do not willingly steer their Course that way, which they take more directly and more conveniently through the Sound. The King of Denmark raises also a great Revenue from the Cattel of his Dominions, which afford 'em both very fat and in great plenty. The Germans carry away from thence every Year above fifty thousand Oxen into their own Country; Other Foreigners go into Denmark to buy Horses. Such abundance is there of Deer, that three or four hundred are sometimes killed, in one Chace alone; the Danes are us'd to salt and barrel 'em up, for the victualling, as they say, the King's Ships: the hunting of those Creatures is commonly perform'd in Chariots, or a sort of running Waggons, by reason these Machines do not fright away the Deer.
The Ports of Denmark are the Peninsula of Jutland, and the Islands near the Streight of the Belt: Schonen was yielded up to the Crown of Sueden by the late Treaties of Peace. Jutland was the abode of Cimbres, who have made Conquest in most of the Regions of Europe, and who, before they were defeated by Marius, gave furious Alarums to the Romans. There is somewhat Martial found at this day in the Danish Ladies; they love Hunting, and receive at Table, rather than in their Chambers, those persons who make 'em visits.
In Jutland there be four Diocesses towards the North, Ripen, Arhusen, Alborg, Viborg; two Dutchies towards the South, Sleswick and Holstein. Those who inhabit near the Coast are at small Charges in making their Houses, for that the Wind does often carry there such drifts of Sand, as to constrain 'em to get out at the top of their Houses. Kolding is the place of Custom for the Cattel: Frederic-Ode, which is now called Frederic, for the rendring the termination of it the more different from that of Frederick-Ohrt in Holstein, is in so important a situation, that Charles Gustavus, King of Sueden, having taken it in the late Wars, had then the means of making his Army pass over the Ice, into all the Neighbouring Islands, and go give the Alarum to Copenhagen; which was an Action as bold as that never the like was heard of; this Prince made the Cavalry march and lead the Artillery over great Arms of the Sea, where before a Man on foot would have been afraid of venturing himself: True it is, that formerly some Battels have been fought there upon the Ice, but commonly the War was made, in those Parts, by Land in Winter, and by Sea in Summer.
The Dutchy of Sleswick was the ancient abode of the English: It belongs to the Duke of Holstein, who has his Residence at Gottorp, and holds of the Crown of Denmark. The City of Sleswick has the remains of the Re-intrenchments which were made there, at divers times, to hinder entrance into the Peninsula. One of the late Dukes of Holstein, caused Frederickstadt to be built upon the Eider, with design of setling there the Guild-Trade: He sent, in the Year 1633. for that purpose, a signal Embassie into Russia and Persia; whereof we have both a fine and an exact Relation, drawn up by Olearius, Secretary of the Embassie. Holstein, otherwise Holsatia, belongs to the King of Denmark, and to the Duke of Holstein, who have hitherto done Homage for it to the Emperor, as Fief of the Empire, and have had alternately the administration of Justice, the Session in the Assemblies of the Empire, and in all the Rights of Regality. By the Peace of the Empire with Sueden, Protection is granted the Duke against the King of Denmark, which was of no use to him in the late Wars; and he was only re-established in his Dominions by the Peace of Nimmighen. His Riches consist in the Fishery, and in the Transportation of Swine, which are fatned in the Woods. Some Lands, in this Country, bring forth for three years together, the three years following they are covered with Water, by the means of Ponds that are made to overflow: The Principal Town is Riel, which is near the Port of Christianpreis, which was Fortified, and, near which, has lately been built the Fortress of Frederick-Ohrt.
The greatest Isles of Denmark are Zealand and Fionia. Copenhagen, in Zealand, is a Town of great Commerce, the usual abode of the King. It has a fine Castle-Royal, good Fortifications, which afforded its Inhabitants the means of repulsing the Suedes in the late Wars. It has also one of the finest Arsenals of Europe, wherein is kept a Celestial Globe, of six foot Diameter, made by Tycho-Brahe, the famous Mathematician, who made curious observations in the Castle of Ʋranibourg, in the Isle of Vren. Ʋranibourg is really the pleasantest Situated in the World. Besides the Prospect they have from thence, of the Royal-City, of the two Coasts of Zealand, and of Schonen, they have a full view of all the Ships which pass and repass the Sound from the one Sea to the other. Roskild is the Mausoleum of the Kings. Elsenour is near the strong Castle of Cronembourg, whose Fortifications have lately been augmented.
The Isle of Fionia is the Appennage of the Prince of Denmark. Its City of Ottensec was the place of holding the General Assemblies of the Kingdom, which, since the Year 1660. are to be held at Copenhagen.
The Isle of Bornholm was yielded to the Crown of Sueden by the last Treaty of Peace; since which, the Danes have given, in Exchange of that Island, an equivalent, by the Propriety of several Lords in Schonen.
Norway possesses the Western part of the great Peninsula of Scandinovia, whereof Sueden makes the Eastern: A long ledg of Hills, which divide 'em into two, leaving Norway towards the Ocean, Sueden towards the Baltick-Sea. From hence they Transport Whale-Oyl, dry'd Fish, called Stock-Fish, abundance of Timber for the building of Ships, for the making of Masts and Sail-Yards. Its Coast, though of a vast extent, has few good Harbours, by reason of the small Islands, Rocks and Shelves, wherewith they are environed. The Gulph of Maclstroon is also said to swallow up the Ships which approach it. What is towards the Pole, is full of Forests and of Mountains, which have some Mines of Iron and of Copper. In the Year 1646. near Opslo, was a Mine of Gold discovered, which gave the Inhabitants occasion to Publish abroad, That they had the Northern-Indies; this advantage lasted but as long as the Mine, which was afterwards quickly at an end, by over-much working.
This Kingdom has five Governments, with as many Castles, Bahus, Aggerhus, Barghenhus, Dronthem, Vardhus. That of Bahus, with a Castle of the same Name, upon a Rock, was yielded to the Suedes by the late Peace. Berghen is the best City, the Residence of the Vice-roy, with the new Fortress Bourg, and a Sea-Port, where the Ships do easily touch, and are safe from all Winds, by the means of high Mountains wherewith it is surrounded. The Merchants of the Anseatick Towns have their Magazines. Dronthem, the abode of the ancient Kings of Norway, is very much decayed: It has still the Title of an Arch-Bisho prick, with the remains of one of the Finest and most Magnificent Churches in the North. Ships are secure in that Harbour, but have occasion for good Pilots to bring 'em in. The other Principal Havens, of this Kingdom, are in the Western part. In some Countries of this Region, is Bread made of the flower of Barley and Oats, which they bake between two hollow Flints; this Bread will keep, as they say, thirty or forty years. The Norwegians are little subject to discourses, of such a constitution, that when they are in a Feaver, a slice of a Gammon of Bacon does 'em more good than a new-laid Egg; the inclination of several of them to Sorcery, makes 'em have the reputation of selling Winds to Saylors.
Finmarck, which makes part of Lapland, advances into the cold Zone, so as the day and night last there seven Months together: The Inhabitants of this Country have nothing in property, they accomodate themselves with the first place they like, now in one place, to morrow in another. They live on their Fishing and their Hunting, and only pay the Tribute of some Skins to the King of Denmark; they carry their Fish to sell at Berg. The Castle of Wardhus, with a Burough of three hundred Houses, the most Northern of all our Continent, is in the midst of a small Island, where it serves to exact some Customs, from those who go to Trade by the Ocean, at Arch-Angel in Muscovy. Its Port is in the Western part of the Island, which is separated from the Continent by a Streight of a quarter of a League in breadth, where there is passage for Ships. Its Neighbourhood is not subject to Ice, so as are the other parts of that Sea.
1638. The merchants mappe of commerce wherein by Lewes Roberts.
Denmark hath on the East Mare Balticum, on the West the German Ocean, on the North Sweden, on the South Germany.
This Country doth afford for Merchandize, Fish, Tallow, Hides, and having abundance of Oxen, 50000 are said to be sent hence yearly to Germany; also Buck-skins, Armour of all so•…•…s, furniture for shipping, Boards, such as Wainscot, Fir-wood, &c.
This Kingdom now contains Cimbrick, Chersonese, the Islands of the Baltick, and part of S•…•…dia, and first this Chersonese is divided into four Provinces.
Alsatia is the first, wherein are found the Cities Niemunster and Bramsted, and is the title of the second Son of Denmark.
Dithmars is the second Province, wherein are found the Cities of Marn and Meld•…•…, the Inhabitants of this last is esteemed so wealthy, that they are said to cover their houses wich Copper.
Slesia is the third, wherein are of note Sleswick, 2 Gottorp. and 3 Londen a Haven Town.
Jutland is the fourth, the Towns of note are Rincopen, 2 Nicopen, 3 Holn, and 4 Arhausen.
The Baltick Islands are 35 in number, but of them 4 are sound to be of principal note 1 S••land, 2 Fionia, 3 Bornholm, and 4 Fimeria, of which a word.
In Seeland is found thirteen Cities, * 1.596the chief whereof is Haffen the Kings Seat, and the only University in Denmark, known to other Nations by the name of Copenhagen, that is, Merca•…•…rum Portus, or the Merchants Haven: * 1.597Secondly, Elsinour, standing on the Sea-side, in which Town the Merchants that have passed, or are to pass the Sound, do pay their Customs to the King: And thirdly, Rochilt, the Sepulchre of the Danish Kings; between this Island and the firm land of Scandivonia is the passage called the Sound, towards Muscovia, which did formerly yield unto this King a great yearly profit, but now much decayed since the English found out the Northern passage into Russia. This Sound is in breadth 3 miles, and commanded o••Scandia side by the Castle of Helsenburgh, and on this Island by that of Cronburg, both Castles of good defence.
In Fionia is found eight Towns, the principal whereof Osel, Scomberg and others.
In Bornholmia is a principal City Bornholm.
In Fimeria is found the City of Peterborn, and is the Island in which that famous Mathematician Ticho Brabe built an artificial Tower, wherein he studied the Mathematicks, and wherein are still reserved many of his rare Mathematical Instruments.
- Scandia is the last part of this Kingdom lying part of it on this side, and part beyond the Artick Circle, so that the longest day in the more Northern part is about three months, the Kingdoms of Norway, Swetland, and part of Denmark; the part of it belonging to Denmark is divided into three Provinces, 1 Halandia, 2 Schona, and Blesida.
In Halandia is Halaneso.
In Scania is the City of Londis a fair Haven, Falsgerbode and the Castle of Elsimbourg, one of the Keys of the Sound before mentioned; and the Seas are here said sometimes so to abound with Herrings, that Ships are scarce able with wind and Oar to break through them; and the Country is the pleasantest of all Denmark.
In Blesida is found the City of Malmogia, and the strong Castle of Colmar against the Sweedlande••. The principal Trade of this Kingdom is contained in Copenhagen and Elsinour, therefore under the title of these two I will comprehend the Traffick of this Kingdom.
COPENHAGEN is the Seat of the Kings of Denmark in Winter, and may be interpreted the Merchants Haven, on the East-side is the Kings Palace or Castle, which bordereth on the Sea shore, where the Haven is found to be, the Sea being not far distant from the North side thereof: the City is of a round form, affording little beauty, as being but meanly built of wood and clay, and the Castle of stone. Here are found some Merchants, yet for the mostipart of no great eminence: for the Country affordeth no rich commodities that may allure others thither, or serve to be transported to other regions, whereby a gain may be expected.
The Monies of this Kingdom commonly current is the Dollar, and shilling; two Danish shillings make one Lubeck shilling, and 66 Danish shillings accounted for a Rix Dollar, which is five shillings Sterling.
Their accounts are kept by marks of 16 shillings Danish.
Their exchanges are here practised by the Rix Dollar above mentioned, the common current Coin of these Countries.
Their Measures and Weights I will briefly observe by themselves, and therefore hasten to Elsinour.
ELSINOƲR, of it self is but a poor Village, but much frequented by Sea-men by reason of his neighbourhood to that straight Sea called the Sound, where the King of Denmark hath laid so great Impositions upon all Ships and Goods coming out or going into the Baltick Sea, as this sole profit surpasseth far all the Revenues of his Kingdom: the strong Castle of Cronburg lies in this Village upon the mouth of this straight, to which on the other side of this narrow Sea in the Kingdom of Norway, another Castle is opposite, called Elsburg, which two are the keepers of this Straight, that no Ship can pass in, or come out of the Baltick Sea without their leave; and consequently without due payment of this Imposition. On the South side of Cronburg Castle is the largest Road for Ships, toward the Baltick Sea, where the King is said to have his lodgings, which cannot choose but be a delectable prospect to all men, but especially to him: for Ships go in and out here by Fleets of a hundred, and he is certain, that none do pass either way but according to their burthen and loading, adds somewhat to his treasury. The Haven is able to contain a great Fleet, for it hath Cronburg Castle on the North side, the Castle of Elsburg on the East side, and Seeland, the chief Island of the Kingdom on the West side, and the Island Fimeria or Whern on the South side, in which I noted before, that Tycho Brahe, the samous Mathematician, had his residence. The Danes conceive this Island to be of such importance, as they have a Fable. That Henry the seventh of England offered for the possession of it, as much Scarlet Cloth as would cover the same, with a Rose Noble at the corner of each cloth. If any such offer were made, doubtless the wildom and judgment of that Prince, knew how to make that Island being fortified, peradventure to return him his charges again with good Interest; but it is not credible, by reason that it cannot benefit a foreign Prince, whole Territories heth out of the Sound, by which he must needs enter, those before mentioned Castles commanding the entrance, though it might prove more beneficial to some Prince bordering upon the Baltick Seas, and to whom the Sea is open for passage.
Now for the Weights of this Kingdom, they are found to differ in many places; so many as have come to my hand, I have reduced to the suttle hundred of London, which suttle hundred is found to produce in these Cities of Traffick and some others adjoyning,
l. Aldar 87 Copping ham 92 Cracou 119 Dantzick 116 Hamburg 92 Wilde 116 Elsinour 92 Lubeck 92 Melvin 120 Revel 116 Rhiga 116 Stacar 108 Stralsont 88 Bergen Norway 92 Where it is to be noted, that generally in Copenhagen, and in most parts of Denmark, they hare a great and small hundred, one of 112 pound to the hundred, and another of 120 pound to the hundred, accounted twelve stone of ten pound to the stone: Also they have a Skip-pound, 32 stone of ten pound the stone, or 20 Lispound of 16 mark pound is a Skip-pound, and 20 times 16 pound is 320 pound,
As I have done with their Weights, so I will proceed with their Measures, reducing then to the hundred yards English, and makes in
Ells. Arsnis 166⅔. Breme 162½. Breslow for cloth 148 Ditto for Silks 160 Connixborough 166 Lubeck 160 Munster 80 Ockermond 141½. Revel 166 Rhostick 158⅓. Wismar 157¾. Dantzick 162½. Doinin 163 Embden 163 Gripswould 163 Hamburg 163 Melvin 162 Narva 166 Ossenbrighs 84 Rhiga 166 Statin 141½. And thus much shall serve to have said for the Measures of this Country, whereto I have added the Measures of some other the adjoyning eminent Cities of Trade and Commerce.
To conclude, the Trade of Denmark driven by the Inhabitants, is not great, their Country partly not affording Commodities for Merchandize; and their Seas, I mean principally the Baltick, not being for many Months in the year navigable for Frost. The Inhabitants are frugal in Food and Apparel, and therefore not much addicted either to Silks or Spices, and the great Traffick and Concourse of other Nations through the Sound, that furnisheth them with all Necessaries, makes the Inhabitants less desirous to sail abroad to fetch the same at the first hand. Stock-fish, and other Salted Fish they send into forein Countries, and so also they do their Oxen and Cattel in great Quantity, besides the Commodities which the Country doth naturally afford, mentioned in the former part of this Country's Description; neither have I heard any great fame of their Navigations or Mariners which principally sail Northward, and little to the Southward, tho otherwise it is conceived that next to the English their Vessels are the strongest built to indure the Blasts of the colder Climates, and the Scorchings of the warmer Regions; yet of late days I have understood they have undertaken some new Discoveries and Trade to the East-Indies, which they have since fully performed, to the great Encouragement of such as shall follow them.
1695. Thesaurus geographicus a new body of geography by Abel Swall and Tim. Child.
DENMARK, Dania.
DENMARK, so call'd, as it were the Country of the Danes, is a large and populous Kingdom; but from whence these Danes had their Original, is not sufficiently known to themselves; for some deduce it from one Dan, the Son of Humblus, a Prince of these Parts, who flourish'd many years before the Nativity of Jesus Christ; and others give it out that they proceeded from the Dahi, a certain People of Asia, altho' Dudo de St. Quintin, an ancient Writer (as we are inform'd by the Learned Mr. Camden) affirms that they came out of Scandia, and took Possession of the old Seats of the Cimbri; not to mention that some Persons absurdly derive the names of Dane and Denmark from Dan the Son of Jacob, and others from the Danai in Greece. But one may probably conjecture, that the Danes or Dansche took their denomination from the great opinion they had of their own Integrity, since the word Danneman is commonly apply'd by them, even at this day, to signifie an Ʋpright or Honest Man: It having been an usual Custom among the Northern Nations to appropriate Names to themselves, as well from their Piety and Civil Virtues, as from their Valour and Skill in Martial Discipline.
This Kingdom consists chiefly in the Peninsula of Jutland, encompass'd with the Islands of Seeland, Funen, Laland, Falster, and some others of less note; to which may be added the Provinces of Schonen, Halland and Bleking, on the other side of the Baltick Sea, that formerly appertain'd to the Jurisdiction of the Danes, but were entirely annex'd to the Crown of Sweden by vertue of a Treaty of Peace concluded at Roschild, between Frederick III. King of Denmark, and Charles Gustavus King of Swedeland A. D. 1658. which Treaty was confirm'd by another and ratified at Copenhagen in 1660. So that Denmark is at present bounded on all sides by the Sea, except one small Neck of Land where it joins to Holstein, the German Ocean washing it on the West and North-West; the entrance into the Baltick Sea, call'd the Categate on the North and North-East; the Baltick on the East, and the River Eyder on the South. Thus the utmost extent of the whole Kingdom from South to North contains about 74 Leagues from the 55 deg. to the 59 deg. 45 min. of Northern Latitude, and 53 Leagues from the 28 deg. 15 min. to the 34 deg. 30 min. of Longitude, viz. from the Western Coasts of Ripen to Copenhagen. The King of Denmark in like manner possesses some other Territories, viz. the Counties of Oldenburg and Delmenhorst in Germany; the Isles of Feroe and Iseland in the Northern Ocean; the Fort of Christiansburg on the Coasts of Guinea, another nam'd Tranquebar in the East-Indies, and St. Thomas one of the Caribbee Islands in the West-Indies, not to mention a Toll at Elfleet on the River Weser.
The Air, though very cold, is not so sharp as in some places of Germany, that are situated much more to the South, nor so excessive hot in Summer; so that this moderate Temperature may perhaps be chiefly attributed to the Sea flowing round about, which (as in England) refreshes the Inhabitants with gentle Breezes during the Summer Season, and keeps them warm in Winter. The Soil, tho' in most places naturally barren, and beset with Woods and Mountains, hath been of late much improv'd by the Industry of the Husband-man, and even render'd very fruitful, inso¦much that it brings forth a great deal of Corn and Hay, and abounds in rich Pastures, wherein are fed many Herds of excellent Horses, and so vast a Multitude of Kine, that (if we may give credit to Oldenburgh's report) some Years 40000, others 100000 Cows and Oxen are transported hence into the Low-Countries. Stags, Elks and Swine, are also very common here, together with variety of other sorts of Game. Indeed the Rivers are not very considerable, but there is a spacious Lake in North-Jutland, and the Coasts round about yield great quantities of Fish, more especially Herrings, Plaice, Whiting, Cod, &c. The Groves and Meadows afford a most delightful Prospect, and the Forests are well stockt with all sorts of Venison; so that every Hunting Season, which usually happens in the Month of August, above 1600 Bucks are brought into the Royal Palaces, besides an infinite number of Hares, Conies, Wild-Boars, &c. But among many other kinds of Fowl, no other Nation in Europe has such plenty of Woodcocks, which were esteemed by the ancient Romans as a great Rarity.
It is certain, that the Danes were heretofore a very Warlike People, and that most of the Northern Nations have been constrain'd at some time or other to submit to the force of their Arms; not to mention that the Cimbrians, the ancient Inhabitants of Denmark, often resolutely attack'd the Roman Troops, and that the Galli-Senones, who (as it is very probable) came out of the same Country to storm the City of Rome it self, and besieg'd the Citizens in the Capitol. Indeed we find it recorded in History, that the Danes subdu'd Ireland eight several times, that the English were ten times defeated by them, and for many Years subject to their Kings, and that Scotland became Tributary to them for a while; Saxony in like manner paid to Frotho, Siward, and other Danish Monarchs, and the Swedes were more than once compell'd to bear the same Yoke, until at last they found means to shake it off. Some are of opinion, that the Danes from their large size obtain'd the peculiar name of Geats, which was afterwards corrupted into Getae, Jutae, &c. however, altho' their Stature be now much diminish'd by the Luxury of later Ages, nevertheless they seem still to be more robust and long-liv'd, than most of their Neighbours: They are also very Industrious, Frugal and Courteous to Strangers, entertaining them with all manner of Civility; but they are naturally somewhat Haughty, Self-conceited and ready to pick a Quarrel on the least apprehension of an Affront. The ancient Drink of the Country was Oel, i. e. Ale or Beer made of Malt and Water, and still continues in ordinary use among the Inhabitants; but when the Juice of the Grape was recommended to them by their Neighbours the Germans, they soon learnt to Carouse, and imitated their Teachers in large Draughts and plentiful Meals.
As for the ordinary Danish LANGUAGE, it is no other than a corrupted Dutch, and without doubt proceeds from the same Source as the Swedish, Norwegian, German, Flandrian, and English, all which ought to be esteem'd as so many distinct Dialects of one and the same Mother-Tongue, that is to say, the old Teutonick, as it will plainly appear to any Man that shall take the pains to peruse and compare the Lord's Prayer in all these Languages; altho' indeed no account can be given of the several Jargons spoken in Lapland, Finland, and some other Countries lying to the North-East of Sweden and Denmark, the Gibberish of these People being as unintelligible to the civiliz'd Danes, as Chaldaick, Arabick, or any other Oriental Language. However the High-Dutch, or German-Tongue will perhaps within a little while become familiar to all the Danes, since it is already ordinarily spoken, not only in Copenhagen, but also in most of the chief trading Cities of Denmark.
The Roman Catholick RELIGION has been predominant for a long time in Denmark, until the Corruptions of the Church of Rome, growing intolerable in this as well as the other Northern Countries, Frederick I. Duke of Holstein, being elected King after the deposing of Christian II. his Nephew, began to introduce the Augsburg Confession into all the Churches of his Dominions, and made a League with the Protestant Princes of Germany. Afterward this Reformation was carry'd on by his Son Christian III. who granted a Permission to the English and Hollanders to build divers Churches. His Successors have likewise ever since caus'd the Lutheran Doctrine to be every where establish'd throughout the whole Kingdom, so that scarce any other Religion is profess'd here at this day, except that of the Calvinists, who have a French Church at Copenhagen set up by the Queen, besides a Popish Chappel at Gluckstadt, permitted about Ten Years ago to a few Roman Catholick Families in those parts; Together with certain Chappels built for Calvinists. Independants, Anabaptists, &c. at Altena near Hamburg.
The Kingdom of Denmark was at first Elective, yet so that the King's eldest Son was usually chosen by the Senators, and from that time styl'd the Prince; the other younger Sons enjoying the Titles of Dukes and Heirs of Norway. This Ceremony was heretofore perform'd after a very solemn manner; for the Senators being assembled in some convenient Place in the Fields, seated themselves in a Circle on so many great Stones, (to denote as it were the firmness of the Election) and there gave their Votes; whereupon the new elected Prince was plac'd in the middle on a Stone of a larger size than the rest, and immediately saluted King with joyful Acclamations. Indeed such a row of Stones still remains in Sealand, and is well known by the name of Kongstolen, or the King's Seat. There are also some Monuments in England of the like nature, particularly that of Biscow-Woun near St. Burien's in Cornwall, which the Learned Mr. Camden imagines to have been some Trophy erected by the Romans under the later Emperors, or else by Athelstan the Saxon, when he subdu'd these parts. But Wormius (perhaps with greater probability) conjectures that some Danish or Saxon Monarch was elected in this place by his Attendants. However the Danes of later years have follow'd the Customs of other Countries in their Elections, until they made the Succession to the Crown of Denmark Hereditary. A. D. 1660, in favour of the Family of Frederick III. who vigorously repulsed the Swedish Forces that had besieg'd Copenhagen; insomuch that the Monarchy is now become altogether absolute, altho' the Noblemen as yet retain a very great Authority. Thus the present King Christian V. was proclaim'd the very same Night his Father dy'd, without any previous Election or Consultation held by the Nobility. The Rites of Coronation are usually celebrated at Copenhagen in St. Mary's Church, and the King is Anointed by the Bishop of Roschild.
The Administration of JUSTICE is perform'd in four different Tribunals; the first of these is the Byfoght's Court in Cities and Towns, whereto answers that of the Herredsfougdt in the Country; from whence lies an Appeal to the Landstag, or general Head-Court of the Province. But the fourth and Supreme Court call'd the High-right, where the King himself sometimes sits in Person, is held at Copenhagen; and always consists of the principal Nobility of the Kingdom. In matters relating to the Royal Revenue, there is also establish'd a Rent-Chamber, which somewhat resembles our Court of Exchequer, besides the Court of Chancery, and that of the Admiralty for Maritime Affairs. But it is very remarkable, that altho' some Causes should happen to pass thro' all these Courts, nevertheless they may be soon try'd and determin'd, no Suit of whatsoever Importance remaining in suspence longer than a Year and a Month; since the Danes are altogether averse from unprofitable Formalities. They have their peculiar Statutes, or forms of Law, which are grounded upon Equity, and contain'd in one entire Quarto Volume, Written in the Vulgar-Tongue of the Country, with so much Plainness and Perspicuity, that any Man may easily understand his own Cause, and even plead it too (if he thinks fit) without the assistance of Council, Attorneys or Advocates. The Judges of the two first Courts are constituted by the King's Letters Patents, durante beneplacito, and their Salaries, which are not very great, do not consist in Fees, but are paid out of the Exchequer: They are also punishable for any Misdemeanor committed, so that whensoever one of them acts in any wise unjustly, or wilfully deviates from the positive Law, he forfeits one Moiety of his Estate, part whereof is adjudged to the King's Exchequer, and part to the use of the injur'd Party.
The King of Denmark has a considerable REVENUE arising from a Toll impos'd on all Merchants Ships, excepting those of the Swedes, that daily pass through the Straight of the Sound, which before the last War with Sweden came to 143000 Rix Dollars per Annum, but of late Years has not amounted to much more than 65000, besides a Revenue of 800000 Rix-Dollars from Norway; the Taxes and Impositions of his Subjects, and the Rents of his own Estate, Crown-Lands, Confiscations, &c. All the Danish Nobility derive their Pedigrees from a long Series of Ancestors, and every Family has for many Ages retain'd a single Coat of Arms, as judging it derogatory from its Antiquity to change or quarter it with any other, neither are they distinguish'd by the Titles of Dukes, Marquesses, Earls, or Barons, as in other Countries of Europe. There are some Noble Families even at this day, particularly that of Wren, whose Predecessors were present at the concluding of a Treaty of Peace between the Emperor Charles the Great, and Hemming King of Denmark on the River Eydor. All the Goods and Chattels of a Noble-man, upon his Decease, are equally divided among his Sons, and Daughters likewise by a peculiar Privilege are admitted to a third part of the Inheritance, but the Castles and Fortresses always devolve on the Male-Heirs. It is also ordain'd by the Laws of the Realm, that the King shall not buy any immoveable Goods belonging to the Nobility, to prevent Dissensions that may arise between them, altho' they may make an Exchange one with another. Neither are the Noblemen allow'd to purchase any Crown Lands or Estates appertaining to the King's Tenants.
Altho' the Nobility of Denmark in general do not accept of any distinct honourable Titles, nevertheless many of them are created Knights upon some notable piece of Service done their King or Country. These Knights are commonly call'd Ridders, i. e. Riders, (Equites) and their Off-spring have the Title of Ridders Men's Men. The most noble Order of Knighthood in these parts, is that of the Elephant, and this Honour has been most commonly conferr'd by the Kings, on the day of their Coronation, upon the Nobles, Senators, and other Illustrious Personages of the Kingdom. It is not certainly known when this Order was instituted, altho' Avo Bilde Bishop of Arhusen, sometime Chancellor to King John, in his Letter written A. D. 1537. to John Fris Chancellor to King Christian III. declares that Pope Sixtus IV. among other Honours, first invested King Christian I. with the same Order, in memory of our Saviour's Passion; but others affirm the Badge to be purely Military, and that it was given long before as an Incitement to the Danish Princes, who undertook to defend the Christian Religion against the Moors, Africans, and other Infidels. The Knights formerly wore a Collar of Gold emboss'd with Elephants and Crosses; at which hung the Picture of the Virgin Mary to the middle, holding Christ in her Arms, and surrounded with a Glory of Sun-Beams, but at present they only wear a blew Ribbon, at which hangs an Elephant enamell'd white, and adorn'd with five large Diamonds set in the middle. There is also another Order of Knighthood, commonly call'd the Danebroge, which was founded by Waldemar I. in memory of a signal Victory he had obtain'd over the Lieflanders, by the means (as it is suppos'd) of a Standard that fell from Heaven displaying a White Cross in a Bloody Flag, and inspir'd new Courage in his Army after they had lost the Royal Banner, and began to give ground. The present King Christian V. reviv'd this antiquated Order in the Year 1672, and enjoyn'd the Knights to bear a White enamell'd Cross edg'd round with Red, and hung in a String of the same Colour reaching from the right Shoulder to the left Side. Thomas Bartholinus has given a large Account of its first Original, Progress, Restauration, &c.
The whole Kingdom of Denmark may be divided into the Territories of the Continent, and those that are encompass'd with the Sea: The former contain the Peninsula of Jutland, which was heretofore call'd Chersonesus Cimbrica, and is distinguish'd into the Southern and Northern Provinces. South-Jutland, or the Dutchy of Sleswick, extends it self from the River of Schorburg, which separates it from North-Jutland to the Dutchy of Holstein. This Country affords good Pasture, and brings forth abundance of Corn: North-Jutland is stretch'd forth from the banks of the same River of Schorburg, as far as Cape Scagen, yielding Fodder to innumerable Herds of Oxen and Horses, and consisting in four Diocesses, viz. Those of Ripen, Arhusen, Wiburg and Alburg: Within the Maritime Territories are comprehended many Islands, the chief whereof are Sealand, Funen, Alsen, Arr, Toiling, Langeland, Laland, Falster, Mon and Bornholm.
South-Jutland divided into Two Parts.
- The Dutchy of Holstein divided into four Territories, viz.
- 1. Holstein, properly so call'd, wherein are these Towns, viz.
- Kiel, Cap.
- ...Wilster,
- ...Nieumunster,
- ...Rensburg.
- 2. Ditmarsh, in which are;
- ...Meldorp,
- ...Londen,
- ...Heyden,
- ...Westinburgen,
- 3. Stormar, in which are;
- ...Gluckstadt,
- ...Kremp,
- ...Bramsted,
- ...Pinnemberg.
- ...Bredenberg,
- 4. Wagerland, in which are;
- ...Segeberg,
- ...Ploen,
- ...Oldeslo,
- ...Lutkemburg,
- ...Oldenburg,
- The Dutchy of Sleswick divided into sixteen Parts, viz.
- 13. Bailliages.
- Sleswick, Bish. Cap.
- 1. Hadersleben,
- 2. Tonderen,
- 3. Appenrade,
- 4. Flensburg,
- 5. Sonderburg,
- 6. Nordburg,
- 7. Glucksburg, or Ruthkloster,
- 8. Sundewit,
- 9. Gottorp,
- 10. Husem,
- 11. Huten,
- 12. Witensee,
- 13. Merkier,
- ...Ekelford,
- ...Frederickstadt,
- 3. Territories.
- 1. The Destrict of Eyderstede.
- 2. The Territory of Christi, or Preys.
- 3. The Cloyster of Lhom.
- North-Jutland divided into four Diocesses.
- 1. The Diocess of Ripen.
- Ripen, Bish. Cap.
- ...Kolding,
- ...Weel.
- ...Rincoping,
- ...Henneberg,
- ...Lemwick,
- 2. The Diocess of Arhusen.
- Arhusen, Bish. Cap.
- ...Hobro,
- ...Ebelto,
- ...Horsen,
- ...Grinna,
- ...Ʋnderup,
- ...Mariacker,
- 3. The Diocess of Wiburg.
- Wiburg, Bish. Cap.
- ...Leby,
- ...Lembick,
- ...Wegerby,
- ...Holstebro,
- 4. The Diocess of Alburg, in which are these Towns, viz.
- Alburg, Bish. Cap.
- ...Hals,
- ...Gistadt,
- ...Hirring,
- ...Scawen,
- ...Nicoping,
- 5. The Territory of Wensyssel.
- ...Wensyssel,
- ...Scagen,
- ...Huggerby,
- ...The Maritime Territories; Or Seventeen principal Islands.
- 1. Sealand, in which are these chief Towns, viz.
- Copenhagen, Bish. Cap.
- ...Roschild,
- ...Elsenore,
- ...Fredericksburg,
- ...Ringstede,
- ...Kallenburg,
- ...Sor,
- ...Koge,
- ...Prestoe,
- ...Warburg,
- ...Korsoer,
- 2. Amaga.
- ...Drakoer,
- 3. Funen.
- ...Odensee,
- ...Nyburg,
- ...Middelfare,
- ...Swynburg,
- ...Woburg,
- ...Bowens,
- 4. Langeland.
- ...Rudcoping,
- ...Traneker,
- 5. Laland.
- ...Naskaw,
- ...Newstadt,
- ...Mariebo,
- ...Saskoping,
- 6. Falster.
- ...NICOPING,
- ...Stabecoping,
- ...Falsterby,
- 7. Monen.
- ...Stekoe,
- 8. Alsen.
- ...Sunderburg,
- ...Norburg,
- 9. Femeren.
- ...Burg,
- ...Tassing,
- ...Ketrop,
- 10. Bornholm.
- ...Rotemby,
- ...Nex,
- 11. Artoe.
- ...Koeping,
- 12. Ween.
- ...Ʋraniburg,
- 13. Samsoe.
- ...Samsoe,
- 14. Endelo.
- ...Endelo,
- 15. Leslo.
- ...Hais,
- 16. Sylt.
- ...Syredrop,
- 17. Norstand.
- ...Pelworm,
- 2 Territories in Germany.
- Oldenburg, and Delmenhorst.
- ...Oldenburg.
HOLSTEIN, Holsatia is bounded on the East by the Dutchy of Lawemburg, and the Baltick Sea; on the West by the German Ocean, on the North by the Dukedom of Sleswick, and on the South by the River Elb, which separates it from those of Bremen and Lunenburg. These Territories in comprehending Ditmarsh, Stormar and Wagerland, were formerly known by the name of Nordablingia, or the Country lying beyond the Elb Northward, the more modern name of Holstein, (as we are inform'd by Adam Bremensis) being derived from Holts-geseten, i. e. its Situation in a Wood or Forest. It was at first •••y a Province of the Grand Dutchy of Saxony, but wa• bestow'd by Duke Lotharius, afterward Emperor of Germany, upon Adolph Earl of Schouwenburg or Schaumburg, about the Year 1114, and at last chang'd into a Dukedom by the Emperor Frederick III. A. D. 1474, in favour of Christian the Twelfth Earl, who had also obtain'd the Crown of Denmark; Thus the Dutchy of Holstein became part of that Kingdom, and the Danish Monarchs are on that account reckon'd among the Princes of the Empire, altho' not oblig'd to repair to any Diet. Afterward the Title of Duke of Holstein, together with a considerable part of the Country was given to Adolph the Brother of King Christian III. whom Queen Elizabeth admitted to be a Knight-Companion of the most noble Order of the Garter, in 1562. After the decease of this Duke, and the failure of his Issue Male, the same Title was conferr'd upon Ʋlrick, Brother to King Christian IV. but at present there are several Houses of the Dukes of Holstein, viz. Sunderburg, Norburg, Gluckburg, Arnsbeck, Gottorp, Ploen, and Ottingen, among whom the Duke of Holstein Gottorp nam'd Christian Albert is the chief, and lays claim to the same Authority and Privileges that were granted to the aforesaid Duke Adolph, the Brother of Christian III. However Christian V. the present King of Denmark, having seiz'd on his Person and principal Officers, in 1675, at Rendsburg, under colour of a Treaty, detain'd him Prisoner there, and compell'd him to renounce his Right to the Countries of Holstein and Sleswick, until the Duke found means to escape, protested against those Violences, and at length thro' the Mediation of divers Princes, more especially of William III. King of Great Britain, was restor'd to the greater part of his Territories in 1689, yet without any Reparation of past Damages; the rest being possess'd by the King of Denmark.
The Country of Holstein is well watered with Rivulets, and its chief Trade consists in the Fishery and selling of Hogs; insomuch that the convenience of Trafficking in the Baltick and British Seas, and the Industry of the Inhabitants, has render'd it the richest plot of Ground within the King of Denmark's Dominions. The Holsteiners are for the most part of a strong Constitution and undaunted Courage. They are also Sincere, Just in their Dealings, and very punctual in the observing of Oaths and Promises; So that Holstein glaub, or the Fidelity of an Holsteiner has even pass'd into a Proverb.
KIEL, Chilonium, is a well frequented Mart-Town, and the Capital of Holstein, so call'd (according to the opinion of some Authors) from its Situation on the Baltick Sea in a corner of Land, enclos'd between the Mouths of two Rivers; the German Word Kiel, properly signifying a Wedge. It stands almost in the midst between Flensburg to the North, and Lubeck to the South, and about four German Miles East of Rensburg, being defended by a strong Castle or Citadel, on the top of a Hill that commands both the Town and Haven, its Foundation having been laid by Adolph of Schaumburg the first Earl of Holstein. The Town is also adorn'd with a stately Palace, and many other fair Buildings; particularly a Monastery of Franciscan Minorites, which was founded by Earl Adolph IV. and when the Reformation prevail'd in these parts, was chang'd into an Hospital, besides a College erected by the present Duke of Holstein, and an University establish'd A. D. 1665. The Harbour is very large and commodious, being continually throng'd with Merchant Ships from Germany, Sweden, Liefland, and all the Isles on the Baltick Sea. Moreover in this Town the States of Holstein are usually conven'd every Year, to consult about the most important Affairs of the Dukedom, and especially those relating to the Mint, and Valuation of the Publick Coin.
WILSTER is a neat and well built Town, on a River of the same name, which not far from thence falls into the Stoer.
RENSBURG, or REINOLSBURG, the best fortified Town in the whole Dutchy, is almost encompass'd on all sides with the River Eyder, and defended by a strong Castle, which owes its Foundation to Gerhard II. sirnam'd the Great, Earl of Holstein. But the Town takes its name from one Reinold a Prince of the Blood, or Noble-man of great Authority and Reputation.
DITMARSEN, or DITMARSH, is bounded on the North by the River Eyder, and the Dukedom of Sleswick; on the South by the Elb and part of Stormar; on the East by the German Ocean, and on West by Holstein properly so call'd. Some write the Word Deutschmarsh or Teutschmarsh, i. e. the German or Dutch Marsh, because the Inhabitants of this Province are the Off-spring of the ancient German Saxons, and still retain much of their Valour and Warlike Temper; for they could not be forc'd to submit to the Earls of Holstein, as their Neighbours the Stormarians and Wagrians had done, until that whole Earldom was united to the Crown of Denmark; nay, they soon threw off the Yoke, altho' the Emperor Frederick III. had given their Territories to Christian Earl of Oldenburg and Holstein the first Danish Monarch of that House, and refus'd to do Homage to him or his Successors. But at last they were entirely subdu'd, in 1559, by Frederick II. assisted in this Expedition by his Cosins John and Adolph Dukes of Holstein; whereupon Ditmarsh was divided into two Parts, and shar'd beween the King and the said Dukes.
MELDORP, the chief Town of the Province of Ditmarsh, it stands on the Coasts of the German Ocean, and is a Place of considerable Trade.
LƲNDEN is situated over against Tonningen, near the Mouth of the River Eyder.
HEYDEN is a Town of a large extent, altho' of no great note, being seated on the Borders of the desert of barren Sands, that spreads it self into the middle of this Country.
STORMAR, STORMARS, or STORMARSH, Stormaria, according to the signification of its name, is a Morass or Marshy Ground, lying along the banks of the River Stoer. It has Wagerland and Lawenburg for its bounds on the East, Holstein proper on the North; and the Dutchies of Bremen and Lunenburg on the West and South. Indeed it is worth the while to observe that the several Territories of the Dukedom of Holstein are distinguish'd by names taken from the nature of the Soil, which here, as also in Ditmarsh, is rich, and in most places resembles that of Holland, as well in its Fruitfulness, as the manner of Improvement and Cultivation; so that the swelling Ocean often overflows great part of the lower Grounds, notwithstanding the Dikes and Banks that are rais'd by the Industry of the Inhabitants to keep it out, who nevertheless have considerable Advantages from the Neighbourhood of the River Elb, and the City of Hamburgh, which stands in this Provence, altho' one of the Hanse Towns, govern'd by its own peculiar Laws and Mag•strates: therefore we refer the Reader to its Description in Germany. The other chief Cities and Towns are these, viz.
GLƲCKSTADT is a small City seated on the right-side bank of the River Elb, near its Confluence with the Rhin. It was built and well fortified A. D. 1629, by Christian IV. King of Denmark, (who took great delight in its pleasant Situation) and afterward much enlarg'd by his Successors. And indeed a sufficient Proof of its Strength was made manifest soon after the first building of it; for it sustain'd a Siege of almost two Years continuance, and at last vigorously repell'd the Forces of the Emperor Ferdinand II. This strong Hold Commands the Passage of the Elb, and serves as a Curb to the Hamburgers, so that any Attempt made by them against the Danes would prove ineffectual, until they can make themselves Masters of so important a Fort, and by that means secure an open Road for their Vessels and Men of War.
KREMP, or CREMPEN, Crempa is situated on a Rivulet of the same name, which a little below empties it self into the Stoer, and in like manner owes its chiefest Strength to King Christian IV. who caus'd it to be encompass'd with a firm Wall and deep Ditches. This Town is esteem'd one of the Keys of the Kingdom of Denmark, and became famous for the gallant defence it made for thirteen Months together, in the Years 1627 and 1628, against the furious Attacks of Count Wallenstein, the Fortunate General of the Imperial Army, altho' at last it was constrain'd to Surrender upon honourable Terms.
BREDENBERG is one of the fairest little Towns in all the Territories of Denmark, and the ancient Seat of the noble Family of the Rantzow's. It is also no less Remarkable for the stout Opposition Count Wallenstein met with before it, who nevertheless at length took it by Storm, and put the whole Garrison to the Sword.
WAGEREN, or WAGERLAND, Wagria is almost encompass'd round about with the Baltick Sea, and the two Rivers Trave, or Travenna, and Suentin, extending it self in length from Oldeslo, as far as the Village Grotenbro near 48 English Miles, and about 20 in breadth. This Country takes its name from the Wagrii, a People of Sclavonia, who subdu'd these parts, and has for a long time given a Bull-head for its Coat of Arms, altho' it is not quarter'd with those of the other Provinces in the Escocheon of the Dukes of Holstein, perhaps because the Arms of Oldenburg are thought sufficient for the whole Province, which includes a Hanse Town within its limits as well as that of Stormar, namely Lubeck, seated at the Confluence of the Rivers Trave and Billew. But this City being a Branch of the Empire of Germany, is described at large among those of the Lower Saxony. The other principal Towns of Wagerland are these, viz.
SEGEBERG stands on the banks of the River Trave, at the distance of about 16 English Miles from Lubeck to the North-East, and was heretofore call'd Aelberg, which name was chang'd upon the building of a Castle on the top of the adjacent craggy Mountain. For the Emperor Lotharius (as the story is related by Helmoldus) having made choice of this Hill, in the Year 1134, for the erecting of a considerable Fortress to give a check to the growing Power of the Sclavonians; one of their Princes spake these words to his Attendants, Seest thou the Fortifications on the Top of those Mountains? Let me tell thee, it will in a short time prove the Yoke of the whole Land, &c. Whence (say the Danes) the Place still retains the name of Segeberg, signifying in the German Tongue, Behold the Mountains.
PLOEN is a Town of good Antiquity on the side of a Lake of the same name, with which it is well fortified, as also a Castle built not long since after the Italian manner of Architecture, by Joachim Ernestus Duke of Holstein. This Place at present affords a Title to the Valiant Duke of Holstein Ploen, who has signaliz'd his Valour on divers occasions during the present Wars.
OLDESLO, or ODELSO, is a fair Town watered by the River Trave, and situated in the middle between Segeberg and Lubeck. It was purchas'd in the Year 1338, by John Earl of Wagerland, for the Sum of 10000 Marks of Silver, and continu'd for a long time in a very flourishing Condition; but having suffer'd much Damage in the Wars between Eric of Pomeren, and the Dukes of Sleswick and Holstein, it could never as yet recover its former Beauty and Grandeur.
OLDENBƲRG is situated near the Baltick Sea, about 30 Miles from Lubeck to the North, and (as it is recorded in the Danish History) was anciently the Metropolis of the Wagrians and Venedi, two Warlike Nations that subdu'd the greatest part of Mecklenburg, as also some time a Bishop's See, which was founded by the Emperor Otho the Great, after he had overcome the Venedi, but was afterward translated to Lubeck, and bestow'd on Marcus his Chancellor. It was formerly a Town of considerable Trade, and very populous, having been adorn'd with four Churches, three Monasteries and five Gates, but it has insensibly fall'n to decay ever since the Harbour was stopt up, by the special Command of Margaret Queen of Denmark.
The Dutchy of SLESWICK, Ducatus Slesvicensis, or Southern Jutland, is bounded on the North by Northern Jutland, on the South by Holstein, on the East by the Baltick Sea, and on the West by the German Ocean; being extended in length from Kolding, and the River Leewens Aa, as far as Dannewick, about 18 German Miles, and not above six, or in some places eight, in its greatest breadth. This Dutchy was first granted by Christopher I. King of Denmark, about A. D. 1253, by way of Appenage to the Children of King Abel, on Condition that the Duke of Pomeren, and some other petty Princes of Vandalia, should always pay Homage to the Danish Monarch, and quit all claim to the Crown. In process of time it became the Inheritance of King Christian I. of Oldenburg, who annexed it to the Royal Demeasns, a part of which it has continu'd ever since; altho' indeed it has been often assign'd as a Portion to the younger Princes of the Blood, and is at present divided between the King of Denmark and the Duke of Holstein Gottorp. The most remarkable Cities and Towns of this Dukedom, are these, viz.
SLESWICK, or SLEYSWICK, Slesvicum, the Metropolis of the whole Province so call'd from thence, and a See of a Prelate Suffragan to the Arch-Bishop of Lunden, takes its name from its Situation on a River, or rather a small Arm of the Sea, nam'd by the Inhabitants De Slye, so that Sleswick is no more than a Town upon the Sley; Wic in the old Saxon Tongue signifying a Village or Fort, as Vicus in Latin, and Wiick even at this day among the Hollanders. But the Danes (according to Pontanus) impos'd on it the name of Haithaby, i. e. the Habitation of Hetha, a certain Queen of that Nation. However it was without doubt, heretofore a Place of very great Trade, much frequented by Merchants from Great Britain, France, Spain, Flanders, and other parts of Europe: And indeed Adam Bremensis, who flourish'd about A. D. 1100, calls it Civitatem Opulentissimam ac Populosissimam, i. e. an extremely Rich and populous City. King Eric Barn founded the great Church in the Ninth Century, with the assistance of St. Anschar Arch-Bishop of Hamburgh, who had converted the Inhabitants to Christianity. Not long after, viz. in 1064, the Sclavonians invaded these Parts, ruin'd the Church, and re-establish'd the Heathenish Superstitions: But within a while the Danes shook off the Yoke, and entirely expell'd these Foreigners, whereupon Paganism was again extirpated, the Christian Religion restor'd, and the Cathedral re-edify'd. Afterward the Angles who maintain'd a considerable Trade in Sleswick, built a Church dedicated to the Holy-Ghost, near the Market-place, together with the adjoyning Hospital.
This City stands between Flensburg to the North, and Rensburg to the South, only four German Miles West of the Baltick Sea, 11 from Hadersleben, and 16 North of Lubeck. Within a few Miles from Sleswick to the South, are yet to be seen in many places, the ruins of the famous Wall and Trench which was built about, A. C. 809, in the time of the Emperor Charlemagne, by Gotricus then King of Denmark, to hinder the Incursions of the Saxons, and somewhat resembles the Picts Wall erected by the Romans in Great Britain. This ancient Rampart is commonly call'd Danewark by the Inhabitants, and the report goes that it sometime reach'd (as well as that in England) from one Sea to the other.
HADERSLEBEN, or HADERSLEVE, a noted Sea-port Town, is situated near the Baltick Sea, over against the Island of Funen, at the distance of seven German Miles from Flensburg, and 40 from Sleswick to the North. Waldemar Duke of Jutland, confirm'd its Charter about the Year 1292, and it formerly had for its defence a strong Castle founded on the Top of a Hill that commands the Town. But John Earl of Holstein, eldest Son of King Christian I. caused this Fortress to be demolished, and began to build a new one call'd from his name Hansburg, or John's Castle, (Hans in the German and Danish Tongues signifying the same with John) which was not brought to Perfection until the time of King Frederick II. The Streets in Hadersleben are generally fair, broad, and Mevery uniform. In the great Church is to be seen a stately Monument erected by King Eric VIII. to the mory of Rombold Duke of Silesia, who was sent hither in quality of Ambassador from the Emperor Sigismund, to accommodate the differences between the said King and the Earls of Holstein, about their Pretensions to the Dutchy of Sleswick, but dy'd before the Negotiation was finished. This Town and Castle were twice taken by the Swedes during their Wars with the Danes, but restor'd to the later by virtue of a Treaty of Peace concluded between both Crowns, A. D. 1658. It is also remarkable for giving Birth to Frederick III. King of Denmark, in 1609, who was the first that render'd that Crown Hereditary.
TƲNDERENS, two Port-Towns, viz. the Greater and Lesser, stand on the Western shore or Coasts of the German Ocean, and are both Places of no small Traffick.
APPENRADE is built on a small Bay of the Baltick Sea, over against the Isle of Alsen, and much frequented by the Danish Fisher-men.
FLENSBƲRG, Flensburgum, is so call'd from the Bay of Flen upon which it is seated, altho' others derive its name from one Fleno a Danish Noble-man, who was Lord of the Mannor, and had the Custom of the Fishing-trade hereabouts; but Mhier would have it written Ʋlensburg from Ʋlens, which in the Language of the Natives denotes the ebbing and flowing of the Sea. The Town is remarkable for its Situation in a low and pleasant Vally encompass'd with divers high Hills, and consists chiefly in one continu'd Street of fair Buildings, reaching near two English Miles in length, the Ships riding so commodiously in the Haven, that the Burgers load and unload them even at their very doors. The Suburbs are guarded with a Castle that stands on the Top of a Hill and commands both the Town and Harbour; between which and Sleswick lies a Territory, in time past inhabited by the ancient Angles, the Ancestors and first Founders of our English Nation in Great Britain, as it appears both from the Testimony of the famous Historian Ethelwerd, and a small Village in this Tract, still retaining the name of Anglen.
GOTTORP, Gottorpium, the ancient Palace of the Earls and Dukes of Holstein near Sleswick, is indeed one of the finest Seats in all these Northern parts of Europe, being extreamly well fortified, and standing in an Island, environed with a large Lake made by the River Sley, the Waters whereof are clear and full of Fish, carrying Vessels of small burden to and from the Baltick Sea. The Gardens belonging to these Appartments are large, cut out of a steep Hill on the other side of the Lake, and beautify'd with curious Fountains, Parterres, Walks and Water-works; besides a noble and spacious Park, or rather Forest adjoyning, well stockt with Deer, Wild-Boars, and other sorts of Game. Among the chief Rarities of this Place, we may reckon the Library, which is a Storehouse of choice Books and Manuscripts that have been collected with much diligence and precaution by divers Dukes of Holstein. Here also is to be seen an admirable Globe, which one of the Dukes caused to be made of Copper, being 10 Foot and an half in Diameter; on it is represented the figure of the Sun, which moves in the Eccliptick-Line Rising and Setting regularly. And indeed the Motion of this whole Globe exactly follows that of the Heavens, by the means of certain Wheels which are turn'd about by Water convey'd from an adjacent Mountain. At Gottorp is establish'd a Tol-booth, or Custom-house, where Toll is paid every Year for 50000 head of Cattel, transported out of Jutland into Germany.
EKELFORDT, or EKELENFORDT, Ekelenfordia lies between Sleswick and Kiel, and had its name from the abundance of Squirrels in the neighbouring Woods, as it is evident from the Arms of the Town, which is much enrich'd by Traffick, and the convenience of its Harbour, as being one of the safest on the Coasts of the Baltick Sea.
FRIDERICKSTADT, Fridericostadium is a little Town on the banks of the River Eyder, which owes its Foundation to Frederick Duke of Holstein and Sleswick, who endeavoured to settle the Silk-Trade there, and to that purpose, in the Year 1633, sent a famous Embassy into Persia and Moscovy; an Account whereof has been publish'd by the Secretary Adam Olearius.
The Diocess of RIPEN, Dioecesis Ripensis, bordering on Southern Jutland, contains 30 several Lordships, 282 Parishes, 10 Castles, 100 Noble-mens Houses, and 7 Cities or large Towns, the chief of which are these, viz.
RIPEN, Ripa, is situated in a very pleasant Country on the clear River Nipsaa, which parting it self into three streams, divides the Town into as many parts, and gave occasion to its Arms, which are three Lions. It has been long since dignified with a Bishops See, Suffragan of Lunden, and has a Commodious Harbour, together with astrong Fort. The Cathedral is a Magnificent Structure of hewn Stone, adorn'd with a Tower or Steeple of a vast height, built with Marble and Brick, which serves as a Land-mark to those that Sail along these dangerous Coasts. This Church was first founded on the Top of a Hill, by Eric, sir-nam'd Barn, or the Child, King of Denmark; whom St. Anschar converted to Christianity about A. C. 848. But it was not made a Cathedral, nor the Episcopal See settled there until near 150 Years after, when Idolatry which had prevail'd again in the Kingdom under some Foreign Princes was abolish'd, and the Christian Religion re-establish'd. There is also founded here a kind of University, but it is much inferiour to that of Copenhagen. The City of Ripen was taken by the Swedes, A. D. 1645, and recover'd within a little while after. It is distant 55 Miles from Sleswick to the North-West, and 67 from Wiburg to the South.
KOLDING is water'd on the South side by a River, which separates the Northern Jutland from the Southern, and soon after discharges it self into the Baltick Sea. King Eric Glipping, having laid the first Foundation of this City about A. D. 1268, in the place of an old Castle of the same name, caused it to be fortified with strong Walls and deep Ditches, so as it might be able to defend the Frontiers of the Danish Dominions, which at that time were extended no farther Southward. But Christian III. took so great delight in its Situation and the Pleasantness of the adjacent Country, that he repair'd the Castle Arnsburg, that hangs over the Town, remov'd his Court thither, and dy'd in the same place. The Bridge over the River brings a great Treasure every Year into the King of Denmark's Exchequer, since for every Ox or Horse that passes it toward Holstein, or any of the Hanse Towns, the Owners pay a Rix-dollar, i. e. almost a Crown in English Mony, besides the Imposts laid upon all other kinds of Merchandizes; so that considering the numerous Herds of Cattle convey'd yearly out of North Jutland this way, the Toll must needs amount to a vast Revenue.
LEMWICK stands on the side of the Bay of Limford, whence its name is deriv'd, and is the utmost boundary of the Diocess of Ripen.
The Diocess of Arhusen lies along the Coasts of the Baltick Sea, and within its limits are enclos'd 31 Courts of Judicature, 7 Cities or Wall'd Towns, 304 Parishes, and 5 Forts, the strongest whereof is Schanderborch or Schonderborch, i. e. the fair Castle built on the River Gudden.
ARHƲSEN, Arhusium, is a neat and pleasant City on the Baltick shore, two Miles West of the Isle of Funen, 10 South of Alburg, and 26 North of Lubeck. It is so call'd (accroding to most Etymologists) as it were Aar-hus, that is to say, the House of Oars; altho' Pontanus, with much less probability, would willingly deduce the word Arhusen from Ptolomy's Harudes. Some are of opinion that Poppo was ordain'd the first Bishop of this Diocess A. C. 992, but the greater part of the Danish Historiographers assure us, that the Episcopal See was not founded until the Year 1014. The Cathedral Church is a curious piece of Architecture, beautified with divers rich Monuments of Prelates, Noble-men, &c. But the Bishop's Palace has lain for a long time in its Ruins, yet shews some marks of its ancient Magnificence and Grandeur. The City of Arhusen was taken and almost destroy'd by the Swedes, A. D. 1644.
THE Diocess of WIBƲRG is situated in the very middle of North-Jutland, and its most memorable Bays are Sallingsundt, Vicksundt, Hualpsundt, Sebersundt, and Otthesundt, the last of which is so called from the Emperor Otho. I. sir-nam'd the Great, who made an Inroad into Jutland about the Year 948, and penetrated even as far as these parts, where (as it is reported) having cast a Javelin into this Bay, he gave it the name it still retains. But the most considerable quarter of this Diocess is Salling, a fruitful Peninsula in the Lymford, where are bred the best Horses in the whole Kingdom of Denmark.
WIBƲRG stands in the heart of the Promontory of North-Jutland, at an equal distance from the German and Baltick Sea, eight Miles from Alburg to the South-East; and is indeed a Place of a very great concourse of People, who resort to the high Court of Judicature held here, from whence lies no Appeal, except to the King himself. It was formerly called Cimmersberg, as being the chief City of the ancient Cimbrians; but it is not well known whence came the more modern name of Wiburg: For some are of opinion that it was taken from Wiglet, a certain Prince who united the petty Principalities of the Cimbrians. And Elnot in the Life of St. Canutus intimates, that it came from Wig an Idol worship'd in this place, but it is very probable, that it was the Seat of the Danish Pirates, anciently termed Wigs or Wikenger, as the Inhabitants of Glocester-shire, Worcester-shire, &c. (according to Mr. Camden's Conjecture) were heretofore called Wiccii from the Sea-Robberies, continually committed by them on the Mouth of the River Severn. The Episcopal See of Wiburg was founded by King Sueno Esthrith, A. D. 1065, and Herebert was installed the first Bishop.
THE Diocess of ALBƲRG lies North of that of Wiburg, and comprehends 13 High-Courts of Judicature, 180 Parishes, 6 principal Towns, and 100 Noble-mens Seats. The most fruitful part of it is seated between the German Ocean and Lymford Bay, which extends it self along a great part of the Peninsula of Jutland, and comp•ehends a large Island nam'd Mors. The chief Town of this Tract is Tysted, where Christian III. founded a Free-School, which is now improved to a kind of University.
ALBƲRG is seated on the Lymford, scarce three Miles West of the Baltick Sea, and owes its name to the vast quantities of Eels taken in that part of the Bay, having been before called Burgle, whence the Bishoprick is often named in Latin Episcopatus Burglaviensis, or Burglumiensis. This Bishoprick was first erected by King Sueno Esthrith, the Son of Ʋlf an English Earl, A. D. 1065, at the same time with that of Wiburg, so that there has been for some Years a Contest between the Prelates of these Diocesses about Precedency, each pretending his Bishoprick the most ancient. But the Bishops of Alburg usually resided at Borlum, a small Village not far from this City, until upon the Establishing of the Reformation throughout the Kingdom of Denmark, Stigot the last Popish Bishop was enjoyn'd to abdicate all Episcopal Jurisdiction, and to retire into the Monastery of Borlum. This happened A. D. 1536, and the Lutheran Prelates ever since have had their Palace at Alburg.
The Territory of WENSYSSEL extended toward the farthest Promontory of North-Jutland, is known by the Latin names of Venulia and Vandalia, and supposed to have been the Seat of the ancient Vandals. The chief Town in this Tract is likewise call'd Wensyssel from the Province, and the Inhabitants are the most robust of any throughout the whole Kingdom of Denmark.
SCHAGEN stands on the very point of the Cape or Promontory and is washed both by the Norwegian and Baltick Seas. It is much more frequented by Merchants from all parts of Europe, than any other Town in Jutland, and its Trade would be far more considerable if the adjacent Coasts were not so dangerous.
SEELAND, or ZEALAND, the largest and most fruitful Island in the Baltick Sea, lies to the East of Funen, and is separated from thence by the Streight of the Belt, as also on the other side from the Continent of Schonen by a small Frith, which the Inhabitants call Oresundt, or the Sound, thro' which pass all Merchant-Ships that Trade into the Baltick. This Island, which extends it self about 80 English Miles in length, and 240 in compass, is undoubtedly the ancient Codononia, mention'd by Pomponius Mela, which signifies the same thing as the more modern words of Dania or Denmark. It is named Seeland, (according to the opinion of most Danish Authors) as it were Soedland or Seedland, from the plenty of Corn that grows therein; but others more probably affirm that the word denotes only an Island or Plot of Ground encompass'd with the Sea. The Soil is very fertile bringing forth Wheat in some places, Barley almost every where in abundance, together with a great quantity of Rye and Oats. The Grass is generally short and sweet, growing on the borders of the Cornfields, or in some Moorish Grounds. There is also a great number of Lakes well stor'd with Fish, and Forests yielding much variety of Game, viz. Stags, Wild-Boars, Ro-Bucks, &c. Indeed the Country is in most places very pleasant, as being beset with little Hills, Woods, chiefly of Beech-Trees, Rivulets and Lakes, that afford a delicate Prospect to the Eye, by their agreeable diversity.
COPENHAGEN, Hafnia aut Haunia, the Metropolis of the Isle of Seeland, as also of the whole Kingdom of Denmark, and the Royal Seat of the Danish Monarchs, is seated in a Plain on the Streight of the Sound, only three Danish Miles from the Coasts of Schonen, four East of Roschild, as many South of Kronenburg, 30 likewise South of Gotheburg, 45 West of Calmar, and 70 South-West of Stockholm. It is commonly call'd Kiobenhaun by the Inhabitants, and Copenhaven by the Germans, corruptly for Kiobmanshaven, i. e. Portus Mercatorum, or the Merchants Haven; altho' Meierus, a learned Writer, with little or no Grounds, derives the Etymology of its name from Coppen, signifying James in the Frisian Language, that is to say, St. James's Haven. However it is no very ancient City, as having taken its rise from a Fortress which Axel, Huydo, or Wide sir-named Snare, (whom Saxo Grammaticus calls Absolon) Arch-Bishop of Lunden, erected in this Place about the Year 1168, to restrain the Incursions of Pirates. The Fort was then known by the name of Axel-huys, and proved a good Defence to the whole Island, insomuch that it was soon surrounded with divers Cabbins of Fisher-men, and Magazines or Ware-houses of Merchants and other Traders, that continually resorted hither to furnish their Vessels with such Provisions and Commodities, as the Country afforded. Thus Traffick daily encreased more and more, and the first Foundations were laid of a Hamlet, which in process of time grew up to as flourishing a City as most in Europe; James Ecland, Bishop of Roschild, was its first Patron, and granted many Privileges thereto, A. D. 1254. These were confirmed by his Successor Ignatius, and considerably enlarged by King Waldemar, in 1341, as also by Eric of Pomerania, in 1371. Afterward Christopher of Bavaria endow'd it with the same Immunities, as the other Cities of Denmark, in 1443; And all these Concessions were ratified by the large Charters of Christian III. and Frederick II.
Indeed the Situation of Copenhagan is extreamly advantagious, being encompassed on the Land side with a very pleasant Country, and on the Sea-side with one of the finest Harbours in the World, capacious enough to hold 500 Sail; the Road without is likewise very safe, and fenc'd from the Violence of the Waves, by a large Bank of Sand. The entrance of the Port is so narrow, that but one Ship can pass at once, and is shut up every Night with a strong Boom, the Mouth of it being commanded on one side by the Citadel, and on the other by a Block-house, well furnished with Cannon. The City it self is environed with deep Ditches, and high Ramparts of Earth rais'd according to the Rules of Modern Fortification, and joyned on the Eastern side by a Timber-Bridge, to the little Isle of Amager. The Streets are broad, clean and neat, having Lights constantly kept therein during the Night. The Houses amounting to the number of 9000, are for the most part well built with Timber, but the Intervals are filled up with Brickwork. The principal Churches are those dedicated to the Holy-Ghost and St. Nicolas, but the Cathedral, in which the Kings are usually Crown'd, bears the name of St. Mary, and is adorned with a stately Copper Spire, built at the proper cost and charge of Christian IV. the present King's Grandfather, who was the Founder of divers other noble Structures. The University of Copenhagen was founded by Christian I. in 1478, or 1479, and this Prince procured for it of Pope Sixtus IV. the same Privileges with those of Bononia in Italy. Not many Years ago an Academy was in like manner established here, for the Teaching of all sorts of Martial Exercises, as Dancing, Vaulting, Riding the Great Horse, &c. besides Foreign Languages, and the Mathematical Sciences. His present Danish Majesty has much improved this College, and endow'd it with considerable Revenues and Privileges. Among the other Publick Buildings, the chief are the Citadel, the Observatory, called Runde Taarn, or the Round Tower; the Royal Palace, with the adjoyning Gardens and Banqueting-house of Rosenburg; the Exchange, and the Arsenal, which is undoubtedly one of the best in Europe, and much celebrated for that wonderful Celestial Globe, of six Foot Diameter, made by Tycho Brahe, the renowned Danish Astronomer. The Market-place is extreamly spacious, and no small Ornament to the City, which is governed by four Burgo-Masters, one of whom enjoys the Title of Regent, or President, during his Life.
It 1658, the Swedish Forces under the Conduct of their Valiant King Charles Gustavus, marched ove• the Ice from the Country of Holstein, to the Island of Funen, and having harrassed these Territories, compelled the King of Denmark to accept of a Peace on very disadvantageous Terms. In the next Year the same Prince returned with his Army, and formally invested the City of Copenhagen, but was at last forc'd to raise the Siege.
ROSCHILD, or ROSKILL, Roschildia takes its name from a River with which it is watered, and that drives seven Mills, Roe in the ancient Danish Language signifying a King, and Kille a Stream of Water or Brook. It was formerly the Metropolis of the whole Kingdom, and once contained (as we are informed by Lyscander) no less than Twenty seven fair Churches. An Episcopal See was also erected there by Sueno or Suenotho King of England, Denmark, Sweden and Norway, about the year 1012. and one Gerebrard a Monk was ordain'd the first Bishop, whose Successours had the honour of Crowning the Kings of Denmark; but this Bishoprick has been since united to that of Copenhagen. Afterward Sueno Gratenhede caused the Town to be fortify'd with a Ditch, Wall and other Ramparts. The old Cathedral Church is famous for the Tombs of many Danish Monarchs, some whereof are very sumptuous and magnificent; among these stands a fair Marble Pillar, on which Margaret Queen of Denmark hung the Whet-stone she had receiv'd from Albert King of Sweden, to sharpen her Needles. But this unfortunate Prince paid dear for his Jest; for being defeated by the Queen in a bloody Battle, he was detained seven Years in Prison, and compell'd to renounce all his Right to the Kingdom of Sweden. Moreover the Town of Roschild is noted for a Treaty of Peace concluded between the Swedes and Danes, Anno 1658.
ELSENEƲR, ELSENORE, HELSCHENOER, HELSINGOR, or HALSINGOR, is so nam'd as it were Halsen-Ore, i. e. an Ear in the Neck, as being at first only a Watch-Tower (built on the Neck or streight of the Sea, commonly call'd the Sound, or Oresound; it is also probable that the Castle of Helsingburg on the opposite Shore of Schonen derives its name from the same Original. Between these two Forts pass all Vessels that Trade into the Baltick, so that this Streight next that of Gibraltar may well be esteem'd the most frequented and considerable of any in Europe. The Town of Elsenore is defended by the Royal and Impregnable Castle of Croneburg, which commands this side of the Sound, as Helsingburg secures the other. It owes its foundation to Frederick II. who built it at his own proper Charges with Free-stone brought thither out of Gothland, and Cover'd it with Copper. This Fortress has been for many Years the Seat of the Danish Monarchs, and at present every Ship that passeth through the Streight is oblig'd to strike Sail thereto. Afterward the Master is to come to a Composition in the Town for Custom, under a penalty of the Confiscation of his Vessel and all its Cargo.
FREDERICKSBƲRG, Fredericoburgum, the chief Country Palace of the Kings of Denmark, stands about Twenty English Miles from Copenhagen to the North-west in the midst of a Lake, the Foundations of it being laid in the Water, and the Passages leading thereto over several Draw-bridges. It was formerly only a Monastery call'd Ebelholt, and dedicated to the Holy Ghost, of which Joannes' Parisiensis who was Canoniz'd for a Saint, is said to have been Abbot about the Year 1201. The lower part of the House is built with Free-stone, and the upper with Brick, having been first begun by one Harlef a Danish Nobleman, who sold it to King Frederick II. Afterward his Son Christian IV. laid out vast Sums of Money in inlarging this Royal Palace, and beautifyed it with the richest Statues, Pictures, Hangings and other sorts of Furniture that Europe could afford, but it was not entirely finished until the time of Frederick III. The adjoyning Park was first Stockt with Fallow-Deer, transported thither out of England, in the 24th. Year of Queen Elizabeths Reign, and adorn'd with large Ponds, abundance of high Trees, a fair Bathing House and other Embellishments.
RINGSTEDE is seated in the very center of Seeland, being a Town of the greatest Antiquity of any in Denmark, except Roschild. Many of the Danish Kings were interr'd therein, particularly King Waldemar I. and Eric the Pious.
KALLENBƲRG, Callunda aut Callundeburgum, was at first a small Village, known by the name of Herwig, and inhabited only by Fishermen. But Esbern Brother to Axel or Absolon Huyd Arch-Bishop of Lunden, rais'd it to the dignity of a City about A. D. 1158. or (according to the opinion of others) in 1171. and Beautify'd it with a Castle, Church, and divers other publick Edifices. It is also at present a place of a considerable Trade, and has a very safe and commodious Harbour.
SOR, SOOR or SOER, Sora, is remarkable for its Situation in a pleasant Woody Country, between Slagen and Ringstede. The abovementioned Absolon Huyd Arch-Bishop of Lunden and Bishop of Roschild first founded a fair Monastery here, about the middle of the XII. Century, and endowed it with large Revenues for the Maintenance of divers learned Men, among whom was Saxo Grammaticus the Famous Author of the Danish History. Afterward Esbern the said Arch-Bishops Brother enlarg'd it, and augmented the Revenues by the addition of fourteen Villages. King Frederick II. in like manner having remov'd the School which he had established at Fredericksburg for the Education of the young Nobility in this place, made a further Augmentation of the Income: Insomuch, that of a rich Popish Monastery it became one of the Noblest Free-Schools in the reformed part of Christendom, which was turned into a small University by Christian IV. who appointed Sallaries for a certain Number of Professors, and at the same time constituted an Academy furnished with able Masters for the Instructing of young Gentlemen in all sorts of Martial Exercises and Acts of Chivalry. Thus in process of time the University of Sora grew to be the most famous in the whole Kingdom of Denmark. In the Year 1621. the Lands of the demolished Nunnery of Mariebo in Laland were given thereto; but at present these and all the other large Territories formerly belonging to this University are possest by the King; who sometimes talks of reestablishing it, but perhaps a stop has been put to his design, chiefly through the dissuasion of the Professors at Copenhagen, whose Interest it is to hinder the Establishing of another University in their Neighbourhood.
KOGE, Coagium, is a small but very populous Town, distant about 16 Miles from Copenhagen to the South. It is much enricht by Traffick, and more especially throng'd with Corn-Merchants and Fishmongers.
AMAGA, or AMAGER, Amagria, the least Island of the Danish Seas, lies on the East of Copenhagen, about six English Miles in length, four in breadth, and fifteen or sixteen in compass, being well stockt with all sorts of Fowl and Venison. It likewise brings forth much Corn, and furnishes the Markets of Copenhagen every Week with variety of Provisions, viz: Meat, Milk, Butter, Cheese, Hares, Domestick Fowls, all sorts of Herbs, &c. whence it is commonly call'd the Nurse of this City, and (as some think) took its name; for Amaga in the old Teutonick Tongue signifies a Granary or Store-house: We may also refer thereto the Etymology of divers Towns in Germany and elsewhere ending in Magum, viz. Drusomagum, Borbetomagum, Duromagum, Neomagum, &c. In this Island are two Parish Churches, viz. one called Hollander Byes Kirck, i. e. the Dutch Church set apart for the use of a Colony of that Nation, above 150 Years ago by King Christian II. and the other Torne Byes Kirck, which belongs to the Natives. The Swedish Forces made a Descent on this Island, on the 9th. of October Anno 1658. and the next day burnt all the Villages in it; but on the 10th of December following, their King Charles Gustavus, and General Wrangel were forced to leave their Army engag'd in Battle, and to escape by flight in a Fisher-mans Boat.
FƲNEN, Fionia is situated between Seeland and Jutland, being separated from the former by the Beltis-Sundt, or great Belt, and from the later by the lesser Belt or Middelfarsundt. Its name (according to the conjecture of Stephanius) is derived from the word Fion, which in the old Runick Monuments denotes a Neck of Land rent from the Continent. It is the largest Island next to Seeland, of any in the Dominions of the King of Denmark, reaching about 10 German Miles in length from East to West, as also 8 in Breadth, and 190 English Miles in Compass. It contains above 250 fair Villages, and 264 Parish Churches. This Island abounds with all manner of Grain, especially Wheat, Rye, and Barley: So that great Quantities thereof are transported thence Yearly into other Countries. Here are also numerous Herds of Cattle, and very good breeds of Horses; not to mention that the Woods which overspread almost the whole Island, are extreamly well Stor'd with Deer, Hares, Foxes and other sorts of Game.
ODENSEE or OTTENSEE, Ottonia, took its Name (as some say) from Woden, otherwise called Othin or Odin, the great Idol of the ancient Danes, and others with greater probability give it out that it was first founded by Otho I. Emperor of Germany, who invaded a great part of the Danish Territories, and left his name in several Places. But Pontanus makes King Harold its Founder, who to testify his gratitude to the said Emperor, through whose persuasion he had embrac'd the Christian Religion, named the Town Ottensche, and his Son Suenotho. This City stands in the very heart of the Island 14 Miles North of Sleswick, and 18 West of Copenhagen, and is on that account a fit place for the Sessions of the Nobility and Magistracy yearly held here, as were likewise the General Conventions of the States of the Realm before the Year 1660. It is also Dignified with a Bishops See, under the Metropolitan of Lunden, which was erected A. C. 950. The Houses are generally well Built, and the Streets very uniform. Among other publick Buildings are two fair Churches, viz. one Dedicated to St. Francis, and the other to St. Cnute; not far from the latter of these stands a stately Town-house, on a very spacious Market-place, where the ancient League between the Crown of Denmark, and the Dukes of Holstein and Sleswick was renewed by King Frederick II. A. D. 1575. St. Canutus King of Denmark was Murder'd in St. Albans Church in the same City A. D. 1077. or 1078. but the Workmen as they were repairing the Quire of the Church which now bears his Name, found in a Vault his Body laid in a Copper Coffin Guilt and adorn'd with precious Stones, together with an Inscription in old Latin Gothick Characters.
NYBƲRG is seated over against Corsaer in Seeland, and has a capacious and safe Port, capable of Harbouring a great number of Vessels, even of the largest size. It is one of the principal Towns in the Isle of Funen, and the usual passage from thence into Seeland, having been first Fortified with a Moat and Ramparts by King Christian III. It is also famous for the memorable Battle Fought by the Confederate Forces of the Empire, Brandenburg, Poland and the Low Countries against the Swedes, in the Year 1659. who were defeated in that Engagement, and totally routed out of Funen.
MIDDELFARE lyes on the common passage from this Isle to Kolding in Jutland; and is noted for the Expedition of Charles Gustavus King of Sweden, who having led his Army over the Ice to this place on the 10th day of January A. D. 1658. put the Danes to flight, and made himself absolute Master of the whole Island of Funen.
SWYNBƲRG stands over against the Island of Langeland, and is in like manner celebrated for the passage of the Swedish Forces over the Ice into Seeland in the same Year 1658.
LANGELAND is a narrow Island so call'd from its oblong form, and extended between Funen, Seeland and Laland, about 28 Miles in Length, and only 8 in Breadth. The principal Town is RƲDKOPING, which the Danish Writers call a City, tho' it is a very mean one, and not at all considerable for its Traffick. In this Island are likewise contain'd 16 Parish Churches, and many Noblemens Seats, besides the strong Fort of Traneker, which is well furnished with all manner of Military Ammunition.
LALAND or LAWLAND, Lalandia is separated from Seeland by the narrow streight of Gronesound or Goldersond (as it is written in some Maps) and from Falster by a much narrower Bay. This Island takes its name from its low Situation, and reaches about 32 English miles in Length, and 20 in Breadth, containing (according to the computation of Lyscander) four several Herrits or Lordships, [Gentes] and as many Cities or large Towns. It is also extreamly Fruitful, affording abundance of Corn and good store of rich Pasturage.
NASKAW or NACHSCOW is the chief Town of Laland, and its Fortifications are considerable; nevertheless it was storm'd and burnt, together with the adjoyning Monastery by the Lubeckers, in the Year 1510. but made a long resistance against the Swedish Forces in 1659.
NEWSTADT was once famous for a noble Monastery founded there A.D. 1286. and the Nunnery of MARIEBO mentioned in the Description of Sor was sometime as remarkable a place as any in the whole Isle of Laland.
FALSTER, Falstria lies Southwest from Monen, and is not above 16 English Miles in length, but is much celebrated for its Fruitfulness and plenty of Provisions, supplying not only its own Inhabitants with Corn, but also a great part of the Dutchy of Mecklenburg, and divers other Territories of Germany.
NICOPING is one of the most pleasant and best built Towns in the whole Kingdom, and on that account it is stiled by Dr. Heylyn the Naples of Denmark. It is distant 11 miles from Copenhagen to the South.
STABECOPING is a place of some Trade, chiefly caus'd by the Passengers that continually resort hither between Seeland and Germany.
MON, MEƲN, or MONEN is a Chalky Island lying to the North-East of Falster, about 30 English Miles in circuit, and serving for a good Landmark to the German Vessels that frequent those Seas. It was formerly annexed (as Lyscander informs us) to the personal Estate of the Danish Admirals, as a place thought to be most convenient of any within the whole Kingdom of Denmark for the residence of such an Officer. Indeed it defended it self better in the Year 1659. against the Attacks of the Swedes, than any of the larger Islands, as STEKOE its capital Town long before gallantly withstood the Lubeckers in 1510. and at last compell'd them to retreat.
ALSEN, Alsena a small Island lies over against the Bay of Flensburg, and is separated only by a narrow Frith or Arm of the Sea from the Country of Sleswick. It is extremely fruitful, pleasant and populous, containing 4 Towns and 13 Parishes, so that several thousands of stout Soldiers may be rais'd there upon occasion in a very short time. The places of greatest importance in this Isle are the Forts of SƲNDERBƲRG and NORBƲRG which have given Titles to two Dukes of the House of Holstein; the former of these was anciently the usual Seat of the Dukes of Sleswick, and is as yet one of the strongest Holds in the Territories of Denmark, having not long since resolutely sustained the Attacks of Wrangel the Swedish General, and even forced him at last to quit the whole Island.
The Island of FEMEREN, Femera aut Femeria is situated on the Coasts of Wagerland, and parted from thence by a very small Channel. Indeed this little Plot of Ground has been ever esteemed one of the Keys of Denmark on the side of Germany, and on that account King Christian IV. in the Year 1628. caus'd the most considerable places in it, more especially BƲRG, to be secured with strong Garrisons, and fortified the old Castles which had been slighted by some of his Predecessors.
The Island of BORNHOLM lies in the Baltick Sea, near the Continent of Schonen, and includes some small Towns that have often suffered Damage during the Wars with the Swedes, to whom it was surrendered by vertue of the Treaty of Roschild concluded between the two Northern Crowns, A. D. 1658. But the Danes have since redeemed it by the exchange of several Lands in Schonen.
WEEN is a small Island, situated in the streight of the Sound, between Seeland and Schonen, and was formerly famous for the Castle or Tower of Ʋraniburg, in which that Noble Danish Baron named Tycho Brahe frequently made Astronomical Observations, but it is now demolish'd and lyes Buried in its ruins. The same renowned Mathematician in like manner built a Dungeon call'd Stelliburg, beset with Looking-Glasses, and Chrystals, where he was wont to sit and observe the Stars in all Seasons.
SAMSOE, Samsoa aut Samos Danica, lies between Seeland and Jutland, almost over against the City of Arhusen to the East. It is an Island of a very small extent, yet has been lately erected into a County by Christian V. the present King of Denmark, in favour of Madam Mote Countess of Samsoe a Citizens Daughter of Copenhaguen, on whom this Prince has begot two Natural Sons.
OLDENBƲRG and DELMENHORST are two Counties in Germany that lye together, but are separated from all the rest of the King of Denmark's Dominions; the two Rivers, Elb and Weser, and the Dutchy of Bremen interposing between them and Holstein to the North-East; they are also bounded on the West by East-Friesland and the County of Embden; on the South by part of the Bishoprick of Munster; and on the North by the German Ocean. These Territories are enclos'd within the Circle of Westphalia, and extended about 35 English miles in Diameter. The Country of Oldenburg is for the most part flat and Moorish, much expos'd to the Inundations of the Sea; nevertheless abounds in rich Pastures for Cattle, and more especially affords Fodder to an excellent Breed of Horses introduced some Years ago by Antony Hunter, the last Count descended from Wittekind the first Duke of Saxony, whose Line entirely failing in the Year 1676. this County fell into the possession of the King of Denmark, who derives his Extraction from the Eldest Branch of the Counts of Oldenburg. Delmenhorst is situated on a higher ground, and beset with Woods. But the Nature of these Countries is shewn more at large in the Description of Germany.
A Chronological TABLE, shewing the Succession of the Kings of Denmark, since the year of our Lord 930.
The first Christian Monarch of this Kingdom.
A. D. Years. 1. Harald VI. 930 Reigned 50 2. Suen, or Sueno II. 980 34 3. Canut, or Knute II. Sirnam'd the Great. 1014 21 4. Canut III. 1036 9 5. Magnus the Norwegian. 1045 4 6. Sueno III. 1049 27 7. Harold VII. the Idle. 1074 2 8. Canut IV. 1076 9 9. Olaus 1085 10 10. Eric III. 1095 7 11. Harold VIII. or Nicolas. 1102 33 12. Eric IV. 1135 4 13. Eric V. 1139 8 14. Canut V. 1147 8 15. Sueno IV. 1155 2 16. Waldemar I. 1157 28 17. Canut VI. 1185 18 18. Waldemar II. 1202 40 19. Eric VI. 1241 8 20. Abel 1250 2 21. Christopher I. 1252 7 22. Eric VII. the Old 1259 27 23. Eric VIII. the Young. 1286 35 24. Christopher II. 1321 12 25. Waldemar III. 1333 42 26. Margaret and Haquin. 1376 37 27. Eric IX. 1412 about 26 An Interreign of Six Years. 28. Christopher III. 1445 3 29. Christiern or Christian I. 1448 34 30. John 1482 32 31. Christian II. deposed 1513 10 32. Frederick I. the Pacifick. 1523 11 33. Christian III. 1534 24 34. Frederick II. 1559 29 35. Christian IV. 1588 60 Christian Elected. 36. Frederick III. 1648 22 37. Christian V. 1670 Reigning