# Elingård Manor

- **Country:** Norway
- **Coordinates:** 59.252222, 10.802500
- **Location Text:** Fredrikstad Municipality

Elingård Manor is a historic estate situated on the Onsøy peninsula just outside Fredrikstad in Østfold county, Norway. The current main building, completed in 1749, was constructed in the Renaissance style following a devastating fire in 1746 that destroyed its predecessor. The structure features two floors comprising a central main wing flanked by two side wings, set within grounds that include a garden designed in the English manner. This architectural ensemble represents a significant example of Norwegian manor house design from the mid-18th century, rebuilt to restore the prestige of an estate with deep historical roots.

The property holds considerable historical significance due to its association with prominent Norwegian noble families. Originally owned by the Rosensverd and Gyldenhorn families in the 15th century and the Brockenhuus family in the 16th, it was acquired in 1610 by Jens Bjelke, the Chancellor of Norway. Through his marriage to Sophie Brockenhuus, Bjelke became one of the wealthiest nobles in the nation, and the estate subsequently passed to his son, Admiral Henrik Bjelke. The manor survived another major fire in 1645 before being transferred to the Huitfeldt family in the 18th century via marriage, eventually selling to private owners like Hans Møller in 1778.

Today, Elingård Manor is owned by the Fredrikstad Museum and has been part of the Østfold Museum organization since January 2006. It operates primarily as a public museum, preserving the legacy of its former aristocratic residents while serving as a vibrant cultural venue. The site is frequently used for social events and gatherings by local associations, ensuring the historic building remains an active part of the community. Its transformation from a private noble residence to a publicly accessible institution highlights its enduring importance to the regional heritage of southeastern Norway.

![Photo of Elingård Manor](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3e/Elingaard_front.jpg)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elingård (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)