King Harald V of Norway was laid to rest on Wednesday following a state funeral at Oslo Cathedral, an event marked by significant emotional displays from European royals. Harald V, who reigned for over 35 years and was Europe's oldest reigning sovereign after Queen Elizabeth II, passed away on August 28 at the age of 89.
The service drew senior members from 11 royal households, including those from Spain, Denmark, Japan, and Jordan, all gathered to pay tribute to the monarch, often referred to as the 'grandfather of the nation'.
Among the notable moments of grief was King Frederik X of Denmark, who became visibly emotional during the service for his 'Uncle Harald.' Fans observed and praised the poignant moments, including when he reached for Queen Mary's hand as Harald's coffin was brought into the cathedral.
Queen Sonja, Harald V's widow of nearly 58 years, was also deeply moved. She was visibly affected when Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre spoke of the 'love' the couple shared. The Prime Minister highlighted Queen Sonja's integral role in King Harald’s service to the nation, acknowledging her efforts in promoting culture and celebrating nature.
Reports indicated that Norwegians watching the funeral began to openly weep when cameras focused on Queen Sonja crying softly during the prime minister's address. Onlookers expressed a shared sense of mourning and affection for both the late King and his grieving wife.
Princess Anne, attending in a personal capacity as godmother to the new King Haakon VIII, offered a touching display of solidarity. After greeting King Haakon VIII, she later approached Queen Sonja, holding both her hands and offering words of comfort and reassuring smiles.
Norway's Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra, the heir to the throne, demonstrated composure and grace. In a video shared online, she was seen comforting her younger brother, Prince Sverre Magnus, who became overwhelmed with emotion. Princess Ingrid Alexandra placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder, a gesture that garnered praise.
Princess Ingrid Alexandra was also observed thanking Prince William, who represented King Charles III, and Princess Anne before their departure from the Royal Palace.
The funeral also highlighted the bond between younger royals, with Norway's Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra reuniting with Crown Princess Catharina-Amalia of the Netherlands. The two are reportedly part of a WhatsApp group with Princess Elisabeth of Belgium, discussing the unique challenges of their royal lives.
The service included a procession from the Royal Palace to the Chapel, gun salutes, and speeches. King Harald V died due to a rare blood condition known as haemolytic anaemia. His son, King Haakon VIII, his wife Queen Mette-Marit, and their children Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus, along with other foreign royals, participated in the funeral proceedings.