Queen Margrethe officially abdicated the throne in a historic moment for Denmark, marking the end of her 52-year reign. The 83-year-old queen signed a declaration of abdication at Christiansborg Palace, making her son, Crown Prince Frederik, the new monarch, with the regnal name King Frederik X. Over 100,000 Danes gathered in Copenhagen to witness this unprecedented event, which marked the second time in 900 years that a Danish sovereign stepped down.
The abdication ceremony included a final procession through the streets of Copenhagen in a horse-drawn carriage. Following the signing, Queen Margrethe left the Council of State, accompanied by her son, his wife, Queen Mary, and their 18-year-old eldest son, the new Crown Prince Christian.
At 3:00 pm (1400 GMT), Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen proclaimed King Frederik X on the balcony of Christiansborg Palace. Queen Mary, an Australian-born commoner, stood by the new king’s side, becoming the first non-royal to be queen in Denmark.
Despite freezing weather, large crowds gathered along the procession route and outside Christiansborg, expressing their excitement about witnessing this historic transition. Copenhagen police anticipated a turnout exceeding 100,000 people.
This abdication is only the second in Denmark’s history, with the last one occurring almost nine centuries ago in 1146 when Erik III stepped down. The capital was adorned with red-and-white flags for the occasion, and portraits and banners around the city thanked Queen Margrethe for her years of service.
The new monarch, King Frederik X, is 55 years old and enjoys widespread support among Danes. His wife, Queen Mary, represents a break from tradition as the first commoner to become queen in Denmark. The ceremony included no foreign dignitaries, coronation, or throne for the new king.
Queen Margrethe’s decision to abdicate was unexpected, as she had previously indicated her intention to follow tradition and reign until her death. Health issues, following major back surgery last year, were cited as the primary reason for her decision.
Queen Margrethe will retain the title of queen and may represent the royal family on occasion. Passing the throne to her son is seen as a strategic move to allow him time to flourish in his role gradually. King Frederik X is expected to bring his style to the monarchy, focusing on environmental causes and continuing his mother’s commitment to ceremonial duties.
