It is a historic day what Denmark has just experienced. This Sunday, January 14, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark abdicated after 52 years of reign for the benefit of his eldest son Frederick. On the facade of the French embassy in Copenhagen, a tribute was also paid to the sovereign. On the building, a sign read “THANKS” had been posted. Despite the cold, the crowd began to gather very early in front of Christianborg Palaceseat of the Danish Parliament, the Ministry of State and the Supreme Court.
Around 1:30 p.m., the Guard Hussar Regiment arrived on the scene. Ten minutes later, Prince Frederik then left Amalienborg Castle for Christianborg, for the transfer of power. It was accompanied by his wife, Princess Mary and his eldest son, Prince Christian. They were followed by Queen Margrethe who made the journey in a carriage, escorted by the guard hussar regiment. On board, the sovereign greeted the crowd who cheered and applauded her as she passed. After a short procession, the procession arrived at 2:15 p.m.
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Frederik from Denmark moved in front of the crowd
On site, Margrethe II signed, all smiles, the act of abdication alongside his son Frederik and his grandson Christian, during an exceptional Council of State. She then returned to Amalienborg Palace by car, still to the cheers of the crowd. Some residents even wore a paper or plastic crown in homage to their former queen. Afterwards, a reception at Christiansborg Palace was then organized by Frederik and Mary where only invited personalities could attend.
It was at 3 p.m. sharp that the eldest son of Margrethe II appeared on the balcony. Moved and with tears in his eyes, he warmly greeted the crowd before being joined by the Danish Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen who officially proclaimed him King of Denmark, without being crowned. The new sovereign then gave a speech in which he indicated his motto which is none other than that of his mother : “the help of God, the love of the people, the strength of Denmark”.
Then it was the turn of his wife Mary to make her appearance. The royal couple shared a tender kiss before being joined by their four childrenChristian, Isabella, Vincent and Josephine. After being acclaimed by the Danish people, the new sovereigns are returned to their residence by coach, escorted by a regiment of mounted hussars. On the way, they continued to greet the crowd fervently. From Amalienborg Palace, the new king made another appearance from the balcony alongside his wife Mary and their children. Finally, at 5 p.m., the royal flags will then be transferred from the palace of Christian IX where Margrethe II resides to the palace of Frederik VIII in Amalienborg, where the new royal couple lives.
Photo credits: Ritzau Scanpix/ABACA