Norway’s royal family accompanied the coffin of the late King Harald V through the Royal Palace in Oslo on Monday, carrying it from the Red Salon to the Palace Chapel in a solemn ceremonial procession.
King Haakon VIII and Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra led the procession through several of the palace’s state rooms, followed by Queen Mette-Marit and Queen Sonja, Harald’s widow.
The coffin was carried through the Yellow Salon, Hall of Mirrors, Daily Dining Room, Small Ballroom and Great Ballroom before palace aides took over in the final stage of the journey.
The procession was led by the chief of the royal household, carrying the crown on a cushion, while the head of the Royal Secretariat carried the Norwegian royal sword. Other senior palace officials carried some of Harald’s principal orders from Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Britain.
A private memorial service for members of the royal family, palace staff and aides was held after the coffin reached the chapel, where it will remain until the funeral.
The public will be able to pay their respects from Tuesday, 1 September, when the chapel opens between 2pm and 6pm. It will then be open daily from 10am to 6pm until 8 September, with military cadets standing vigil beside the coffin.
King Harald V died aged 89 on Friday. His state funeral is due to take place at Oslo Cathedral on Wednesday, 9 September, followed by a private ceremony at Akershus Castle Church.
