Denmark. In 1842 Denmark was divided into smaller administrative divisions, namely parish municipalities (Danish: sognekommunner). The borders of these municipalities were largely based on the country's parishes. In the 1970 municipal reform these parish municipalities were dissolved. Five parish municipalities had merged already in 1966 to form Rudkøbing Parish Municipality, which then became Rudkøbing Municipality in 1970. This municipality lasted until 2007 when it was merged with the municipalities of Sydlangeland and Tranekær. Historical divisions Towns Approximately 70% of the municipality's population lived in the city of Rudkøbing, with the remainder living in rural areas. Smaller villages in the municipality include Spodsbjerg, Fuglsbølle and Ny Skrøbelev. Rudkøbing was located in the western part of the municipality. The municipality also included the island of Strynø. The only settlement on the island is called Strynø By. This village is located centrally on the island, and houses the island's attractions and facilities. It connects to the ferry harbour through a short road. In Strynø By is Strynø Church. Below is the population from 2006 of the one larger settlement of the municipality, namely Rudkøbing. Politics Municipal council Below are the municipal council elected since the municipality's creation in 1970 and until 2001, which was the last election before the municipality was dissolved. Mayors Since the creation of the municipality in 1970 and until it was dissolved in 2007, the mayors of Rudkøbing Municipality were: Parishes The municipality consisted of six parishes and six churches. Fuglsbølle Parish (Fuglsbølle Church) Longelse Parish (Longelse Church) Rudkøbing Parish (Rudkøbing Church) Simmerbølle Parish (Simmerbølle Church) Skrøbelev Parish (Skrøbelev Church) Strynø Parish (Strynø Church) Symbols Rudkøbing Municipality's coat of arms was three blue fish on a white background. References Former municipalities of Denmark