On August 28, Norway’s royal family entered a period of transition following the death of King Harald V, who reigned for over three decades. The late monarch passed away peacefully at the age of 89 after enduring several years of health issues. His son, Haakon, has now ascended to the throne, becoming King Haakon of Norway.
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The Norwegian monarchy boasts a rich history that spans more than 1,000 years. The first recorded king was Harald Fairhair, believed to have taken the throne around 885 AD. Currently, Norway is ruled by the House of Glücksburg, a lineage that has been in power since Norway’s independence from Sweden in 1905. King Harald V was the first king born in Norway in 567 years and officially began his reign on January 17, 1991, with his consecration taking place later that year at Trondheim’s Nidaros Cathedral.
King Haakon, born on July 20, 1973, is the second child of King Harald and Queen Sonja and has been groomed for kingship throughout his life. He married Mette-Marit Tjessem Høiby in 2001, who is now the Queen Consort. Their family includes Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra, who is next in line for the throne, and Prince Sverre Magnus. Ingrid has special significance as the first female royal to be formally recognised in Norway’s line of succession since new laws were introduced in 1990, allowing for gender equality in inheritance.
The Norwegian royal family shares deep connections with the British monarchy. King Harald was related to the late Queen Elizabeth II, making them second cousins. In a heartfelt tribute shared via social media platform Instagram, King Charles expressed his sorrow over the passing of King Harald, acknowledging him as a dear cousin and a respected figure whose kindness and sense of duty were remembered fondly.
King Harald’s legacy includes his marriage to Queen Sonja, with whom he held a strong partnership that resonated throughout his reign. Queen Sonja, born in Oslo, has maintained a vibrant interest in arts and culture, championing the Norwegian National Opera and Ballet, as well as the Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra. Together, they navigated personal challenges, including the grief of losing their eldest daughter, Princess Märtha Louise, to her struggles with alternative medicine, after she stepped back from royal duties in 2022.
King Haakon’s ascent to the throne follows a significant period of preparation, which included performing royal duties on behalf of his father when required. He stepped in as regent during King Harald’s treatment for bladder cancer in 2003 and again recently during his father’s recovery from a viral infection. As the new king begins his reign, he remains committed to the traditional roles of the monarchy while also navigating modern challenges.
Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra is poised to take on increased responsibilities as she transitions to an essential figure in the royal family. Known for her environmental advocacy, she first represented the royal family at a public engagement on World Environment Day in 2009. Her education has been a priority, as she recently returned from studying at the University of Sydney in response to her mother’s health needs.
Prince Sverre Magnus, the youngest member of the royal family, maintains a lower profile in royal engagements but supports his family. He is studying at Forward College in Lisbon, indicative of a modern approach within the royal family to education and societal roles.
Mette-Marit has also faced her own health battles, with a recent diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis. She has shared her journey with the public transparently, helping to maintain the family’s connection and relevance in today’s society. The royal couple remains committed to leading with dignity and compassion as they embark on their new roles amidst changing social landscapes.
As King Haakon prepares to lead Norway forward, he builds on a legacy steeped in history as well as modernity, balancing the weight of tradition with the evolving expectations of monarchy in contemporary society. The royal family’s strength lies not only in their ceremonial roles but also in their commitments to public service, cultural advocacy, and familial support as they navigate this significant moment in Norway’s history.