Denmark’s King Frederik X takes the throne from his mother who abdicated after 52 years of ruling (photos/video)

King Frederik X of Denmark has ascended to the throne following the unexpected abdication of his mother, Queen Margrethe II. In Copenhagen, where crowds had gathered to witness this historic transition, Queen Margrethe’s decision to step down on New Year’s Day marked the end of her more than five decades of reign and paved the way for her son, former Crown Prince Frederik, to assume the role of monarch.

The formal handover occurred during a cabinet meeting at Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, where Queen Margrethe signed a declaration officially transferring the crown to Frederik. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen then publicly announced the King’s accession from the palace balcony, a tradition dating back to the constitution of 1849.

In a brief speech, King Frederik expressed his hope to be a unifying monarch, acknowledging his mother as an extraordinary regent. Prime Minister Frederiksen conveyed the nation’s deep gratitude to Queen Margrethe, emphasizing the continuity of the more than thousand-year-long chain of monarchy.

King Charles III of Britain extended congratulations to the new monarch and queen, expressing eagerness to collaborate on strengthening the enduring bond between their countries. Queen Margrethe, aged 83, held the title of Europe’s longest-reigning monarch and the world’s last reigning queen. Her decision to step aside was influenced by recent back surgery, leading her to believe that the time was right to pass on the responsibility to the next generation.

As Queen Margrethe emotionally signed the Council of State document, officially relinquishing the throne, she uttered, “God save the King,” before leaving the room. The ascension of King Frederik X marks the beginning of a new era for Denmark, with hopes of continuity and unity under his reign.

Denmark's King Frederik X ascended the throne, succeeding his mother, Queen Margrethe II, who formally abdicated after 52 years as monarch, with large and admiring crowds gathered in the capital to witness history https://t.co/TNamUMdWYI pic.twitter.com/twdlLnMrck

— Reuters (@Reuters) January 14, 2024