Norway's King Harald Dies at 89; Son Haakon to Ascend Throne

Norway mourns the passing of King Harald V, who died at the age of 89. His son, Crown Prince Haakon, is set to ascend the throne, ushering in a new era for the Norwegian monarchy.

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It will be a huge job.

The death of King Harald, who had been hospitalized since August 17 for a blood disorder and subsequent infection, was announced by the Norwegian Royal Court on August 28. His health had been described as "very serious" in the days leading up to his death.

Royal expert Roger Lundgren anticipates a significant undertaking in organizing the state funeral and associated ceremonies. "It will be a huge job," Lundgren stated, estimating the funeral would likely occur within one to two weeks. He noted the challenge of gathering global leaders, especially given the current geopolitical climate, but expects widespread public participation through television broadcasts and processions.

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I would guess that the funeral will take place in about one to two weeks. It is important to be able to gather the whole world in Oslo.

King Harald's funeral is expected to follow a similar scale to that of his father, King Olav V, who died in 1991. King Olav lay in an open casket at Oslo's palace before his funeral in Oslo Cathedral, attended by world leaders. King Harald will be laid to rest in the royal mausoleum at Akershus Castle.

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The people will be able to follow the funeral through TV broadcasts but also by lining the streets and squares where the procession will pass.

Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit immediately assume the roles of King and Queen following King Harald's death. The period of royal mourning has been declared in both Norway and Sweden, with royal families adjusting their public schedules.

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Our King Carl Gustaf is now the monarch who has reigned the longest in Europe. He will of course be there. I think the entire Swedish royal family will go if only everyone fits. They are so incredibly close with the Norwegian royal family.