Sogn og Fjordane

Sogn og Fjordane was a county in western Norway, part of the Vestlandet region, until its dissolution in 2020. It was renowned for its dramatic and varied landscapes, encompassing deep fjords like the Sognefjord, towering mountains such as those in Jotunheimen National Park, and expansive glaciers like Jostedalsbreen. The county's administrative centre was historically in Leikanger before moving to Hermansverk.

Geography

The geography was dominated by the immense Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, which cuts deep into the land from the coast near Florø. Major branches included the Lustrafjorden and the Årdalsfjorden. The county contained significant parts of Jotunheimen National Park and the entirety of Jostedalsbreen National Park, home to the mainland European ice cap Jostedalsbreen. Other notable natural features were the Nordfjord, the Hornindalsvatnet lake (Europe's deepest), and the rugged coastline of the Stad Peninsula. Key valleys included Jostedalen and Lærdal.

History

The area has been inhabited since the Stone Age, with evidence from sites like the Vingen rock carvings. During the Viking Age, it was part of the petty kingdom of Sogn, referenced in sagas like Heimskringla. The Black Death severely impacted the region in the 14th century. Historically, the area was divided between the Bergenhus len and later the Romsdal amt. The modern county was created in 1919. It was a central location for the Norwegian resistance movement during World War II, including heavy water sabotage operations related to Vemork. The Kvikne family, founders of the Kongsberg Gruppen, originated here.

Economy

The economy was traditionally based on agriculture, particularly in areas like Jølster and Luster, and fisheries, with important ports in Florø, Måløy, and Ålesund just north of the county border. Hydroelectric power generation was vital, with major plants operated by Statkraft in places like Årdal and Lærdal. Aluminium production was a key industry, centered in Årdal and Høyanger, historically supported by Norsk Hydro. Tourism grew significantly, focused on attractions like the Flåm Railway, Nærøyfjord (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Borgund Stave Church, and outdoor activities in Jotunheimen.

Culture

The county was a stronghold for the Nynorsk written language. Traditional music, including the Hardanger fiddle, is prominent, with festivals like the Førde International Folk Music Festival. Notable cultural figures include composer Edvard Grieg (who had family roots in Bergen), playwright Nordahl Grieg, and poet Åse-Marie Nesse. Distinctive architectural heritage includes well-preserved stave churches such as Borgund Stave Church, Urnes Stave Church (a UNESCO site), and Kaupanger Stave Church. The Sogn Art Museum in Førde and the Norwegian Glacier Museum in Fjærland are key institutions.

Municipalities

Prior to dissolution, the county comprised 26 municipalities. The largest by population were Førde, Flora, and Sogndal. Other significant municipalities included Årdal, Luster, Gloppen, Stryn, Eid, and Høyanger. The northern municipalities like Vågsøy and Bremanger are on the coast, while interior municipalities included Lærdal and Aurland. In 2020, as part of a national reform, the county was merged with Hordaland to form the new Vestland county.