How did the Cistercian monasteries expand in medieval Denmark?

The Cistercian order expanded in medieval Denmark during the 12th century, primarily through the support of influential church leaders. The arrival of the order was facilitated by Eskil, the archbishop of Lund, who requested their presence in the north.12

The expansion proceeded as follows:

• Initial Foundation: The first Cistercian monastery in Denmark was established in 1144 in Skåne.12
• Growth of Monasteries: Later in the 12th century, the order established significant monasteries at Esrum and Sorø in Zealand, as well as at Løgum in southern Jutland.12
• Houses for Women: Before 1200, the Cistercians also founded three houses for women located in the bishopric of Roskilde, in Slangerup (northern Zealand), and in Bergen on the island of Rügen.12

This monastic expansion occurred during a period of significant church development in Denmark, which included the construction of numerous stone and brick churches and the consolidation of the ecclesiastical structure under the archdiocese of Lund.12