The historic moment in Denmark’s monarchy approaches as Queen Margrethe II prepares to sign her abdication, making way for her eldest son, Frederik X, to ascend the throne as King Frederik X. This event, set to take place in downtown Copenhagen, marks the first voluntary relinquishment of the Danish throne in nearly 900 years. Margrethe’s decision, announced due to health concerns, surprised the nation, which had expected her to continue her reign as tradition dictates.
Queen Margrethe’s abdication comes 52 years to the day after she became queen following her father’s passing. The Danish monarchy, tracing its roots back to the 10th century Viking king Gorm the Old, is one of Europe’s oldest. Unlike the UK, Denmark does not hold a coronation ceremony; instead, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen will formally declare Frederik king from the balcony of Christiansborg Palace, an iconic location in Danish governance.
The abdication leaves Denmark with two queens, as Margrethe retains her title while Frederik’s wife, Mary, becomes Queen Mary. Their eldest son, Christian, assumes the role of crown prince and heir to the throne. Following the proclamation, the new king and queen will depart for the royal residence, Amalienborg, where the royal standard will be raised in their honor.
To mark the succession, Copenhagen’s harbor will see the firing of 27 rounds from four guns, while Tivoli Gardens plans a grand fireworks display in the late afternoon. Margrethe’s abdication symbolizes a significant transition in Danish history, as Frederik prepares to take on the responsibilities of monarchy in a nation that holds deep respect for its royal lineage.
