Queen Margrethe II, at 83 years of age, has signed a historic decree to abdicate the throne. This decision, announced on Sunday, marks a momentous shift, as her son, Crown Prince Frederik, ascends to the throne as King Frederik X. This occurrence was officially broadcasted by Denmark’s national broadcasting corporation, DR.
Denmark's Queen Margrethe II-Source: X
Queen Margrethe’s abdication is a first for a Danish monarch in nearly nine centuries, reminiscent of King Erik III Lam’s voluntary abdication in 1146 to join a monastery.
Queen Margrethe II of Denmark handing over the reins to her son, King Frederick X of Denmark 🇩🇰 pic.twitter.com/MmQXEFIhYz
— Prie 🫧 (@RoyalDelhiite) January 14, 2024
The official abdication ceremony took place at the Christiansborg Palace, a sprawling complex housing royal reception halls, stables, the Danish Parliament, the Prime Minister’s office, and the Supreme Court of Denmark. The queen signed the abdication document at an impressively large table, draped in a red cloth, surrounded by royal family members and government officials.
The King Family of Denmark 🇩🇰
🎥 DR1 pic.twitter.com/99xcRdEQAG
— ChristinZ (@ChristinsQueens) January 14, 2024
In attendance was the heir to the throne, Prince Frederik, 55, who was subsequently proclaimed King by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen from the palace balcony to thousands of citizens. Also present was Prince Christian, 18, son of Frederik, who is now the Crown Prince of Denmark and the next in line for the throne.
