Hordaland, Former administrative region in Western Norway
Hordaland was a former administrative region along Norway's western coast, stretching across deep fjords and encompassing Bergen alongside numerous municipalities in both coastal and inland areas. The landscape featured dramatic terrain with steep mountains dropping into the sea and fertile valleys inland.
The region was initially organized as Søndre Bergenhus amt before being renamed Hordaland in 1919, and it remained an administrative region until 2020. This renaming reflected shifting administrative structures during the 20th century.
The region's coat of arms displays two golden axes with a crown, originating from the seal of Saint Olav's guild dating back to 1344.
The region was renowned for fruit production and ranked among Norway's leading growing areas for apples, plums, and cherries. Visitors today can still find numerous orchards and traditional agricultural landscapes throughout its valleys.
Since 1949, the region sends a Christmas tree to Edinburgh each year to honor Scottish support during World War II. This gesture of gratitude continues today and appears in the city's holiday celebrations.
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