Football star Erling Haaland and his father, Alf-Inge, have made a significant investment in cultural heritage, spending 1.3 billion Norwegian kroner (approximately €116,000) to acquire a rare manuscript. This purchase, made in December, set a national record as the most expensive book ever bought in Norway.
Following its acquisition, the Haalands decided to donate the priceless volume to the library in Bryne, the Norwegian town where Erling spent the majority of his formative years. Although born in Leeds, England, while his father played there, Haaland grew up deeply connected to Bryne. Explaining his decision to Norwegian media, Haaland stated, “I want the book to always remain open so that people can read about those who come from where I come from, from Bryne and Jæren.”
Haaland further emphasized the value of literacy and history, adding, “Books provide many more people with the opportunity to dream big, see new possibilities, and find their own path.” The donated volume is a 1594 printed edition of a work by the 13th-century Icelandic historian Snorri Sturluson, detailing medieval tales of Norwegian ancestors, including kings, queens, farmers, and valiant Viking warriors.
