In a momentous turn of events, Denmark’s King Frederik X has officially taken the throne, succeeding his mother, Queen Margrethe II, who abdicated after an impressive 52-year rule.
The historic handover occurred during a cabinet meeting at Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, where the Queen signed a declaration of abdication, formally passing the crown to Frederik.
As crowds gathered in the capital to witness this significant transition, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen proclaimed the King’s accession from the palace balcony, following a tradition dating back to the constitution of 1849.
The new monarch, accompanied by his Australian-born wife Queen Mary and their four children, including Crown Prince Christian, delivered a brief speech expressing his hopes of becoming a unifying king for the nation.
Denmark's King Frederik X ascended the throne, succeeding his mother, Queen Margrethe II, who formally abdicated after 52 years as monarch, with large and admiring crowds gathered in the capital to witness history https://t.co/TNamUMdWYI pic.twitter.com/twdlLnMrck
— Reuters (@Reuters) January 14, 2024Queen Margrethe, Europe’s longest-reigning monarch and the world’s last reigning queen, explained her decision to step down, citing a recent back surgery and a contemplation of passing the responsibility to the next generation.
Emotional moments filled the room as she handed over the throne, saying, “God save the King.”
Prime Minister Frederiksen conveyed the nation’s deep gratitude to Queen Margrethe, emphasizing the continuity of the more than thousand-year-long chain of monarchy.
Messages of congratulations poured in, with Britain’s King Charles III expressing anticipation for continued collaboration between their countries.
Denmark now embarks on a new chapter under King Frederik X’s rule, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a fresh royal narrative.
