Norway bid a final farewell to King Harald V during a state funeral in Oslo, drawing international leaders including Czech President Petr Pavel and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The sovereign, who passed away on August 28 at the age of 89, was Europe’s oldest reigning monarch and ruled for 35 years.
State Funeral Procession and International Attendees in Oslo
The state funeral on Wednesday brought together royalty and heads of state from across the globe. A casket draped in the royal flag was transported on a lafetě through the center of Oslo from the royal chapel to the cathedral, accompanied by a military band and a 21-gun salute. Thousands of mourners lined the route as foreign leaders, including Spanish King Felipe VI, Swedish King Carl XVI Gustaf, British Prince William, and Czech President Petr Pavel, walked on foot in the procession. The guest list also featured the monarchs of Denmark, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Monaco, and Jordan, alongside Japanese Crown Prince Akišino and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker.
Unprecedented Security Operations and Public Mourning
Norsk Rikskringkasting (NRK) reported that numerous people lined the procession route to pay their respects. Ahead of the ceremonies, Norwegian police mobilized approximately three thousand officers in what authorities described as the largest planned operation in its history. Security measures included rooftop snipers, protidronové systémy, and border controls implemented ahead of the event. Prior to the Wednesday service, many citizens visited the royal chapel over the course of a week to view the late king’s remains, with waiting times reaching up to seven hours.
Monarchy Transitions to New Sovereign
The funeral events mark the end of an official period of national mourning during which flags flew at half-mast. Following the cathedral service, the casket was moved to a private ceremony at the royal hrobce in pevnosti Akershus. Concurrently, new král Haakon VIII hosted a reception at the royal palace for visiting foreign dignitaries and government representatives. Recent public opinion data indicates that 72 percent of Norwegian citizens support the monarchy, while 20 percent favor a republic.
Did you know? Norský král Harald si jako první v Evropě vzal neurozenou dívku.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who attended King Harald V’s funeral from the Czech Republic?
Czech President Petr Pavel attended the state funeral in Oslo representing the Czech Republic.
How long did King Harald V reign?
King Harald V reigned over Norway for 35 years and was the oldest monarch in Europe at the time of his death at age 89.
Where was the late king laid to rest?
Following the public procession and cathedral service, the sovereign’s remains were placed in the královské hrobky v pevnosti Akershus during a private ceremony.
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