Norway Prepares for Final Farewell

Key Points:

• The funeral of King Harald V of Norway on September 9th will be the largest security operation in Norway's history and the biggest tribute ever paid to a monarch in the country, with many of the world’s most prominent leaders attending.
• Europe’s royal families, including King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands, and Scandinavian royals, will gather in Oslo Cathedral to honor King Harald V and witness the new Royal Family's public appearance.
• The funeral procession will start from the Royal Palace in Oslo, escorted by military and police, and proceed through the city to Oslo Cathedral, where a solemn funeral mass will be held with music, speeches, and a nationwide minute of silence.
• Notable attendees include King Frederik and Queen Mary of Denmark, King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium, the Grand Duke and Grand Duchess of Luxembourg, Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko of Japan, Prince Albert II of Monaco, and representatives from the British Crown such as Prince William and Princess Anne.
• After the public ceremony, a private service at Akershus Castle Church will take place before King Harald V’s coffin is laid to rest in the royal crypt, followed by a final salute and nationwide ringing of church bells.