Tearful farewell: “God bless the king” echoes as Queen Margrethe bids adieu to the state of the council

In a historic turn of events today, Denmark witnessed a remarkable transition as Queen Margrethe bid farewell to her reign of half a century, paving the way for her son, King Frederik X, to ascend to the throne.

Over 100,000 spectators flocked to witness this extraordinary royal spectacle, marking the first abdication in 900 years. The new king and queen, appearing united and joyful, greeted the crowds from the balcony. Queen Margrethe, a beloved figure with 52 years of devoted service, concluded her reign as she signed a historic document formalising her abdication at the age of 83.

With a single stroke of her pen, her 55-year-old son, famously known as the “party prince,” automatically assumed the role of the new monarch of Denmark. The emotional moment saw Queen Margrethe leaving the room with tears in her eyes, offering a heartfelt blessing to the new king.

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen officially proclaimed Frederik as the new king on the balcony of Christiansborg Palace, accompanied by his wife, Queen Mary. Notably, Mary, an Australian-born figure resembling Kate Middleton, became the first commoner to ascend to the throne in Denmark. The jubilant couple shared a kiss, much to the delight of their cheering fans.

Despite the chilly winter weather, massive crowds gathered along the procession route and outside Christiansborg, draped in warm parkas and Danish flags, eager to catch a glimpse of the new sovereign.

This momentous occasion marked only the second time in history that a Danish sovereign stepped down, the last being Erik III almost nine centuries ago in 1146. The capital was adorned with red-and-white flags, and a significant police presence ensured the security of the event.

Aske Julius, a Copenhagen resident, described Queen Margrethe as “the embodiment of Denmark” and “the soul of the nation.” The Danish population, accustomed to more than half a century under her rule, expressed their gratitude through portraits and banners around the capital.

Amid the traditional proceedings of the royal succession, the abdication shocked Denmark as Queen Margrethe chose to step down exactly 52 years after assuming the throne from her father, Frederik IX. Health issues following major back surgery last year prompted her decision, though she will retain her title and may represent the royal family occasionally.

Speculation arose regarding the timing of the abdication, with some suggesting it might be related to rumours of a cheating scandal involving King Frederik X. Allegations surfaced after he was photographed with former MasterChef star Genoveva Casanova in Madrid, leading to continued speculation despite denials from the TV star.

Crown Princess Mary, who has been married to Frederik for 19 years, was seen crying recently, adding fuel to the rumours. However, some royal experts argue that the abdication was a strategic move by Queen Margrethe to provide her son with the opportunity to flourish in his role as monarch and potentially save his marriage.

Frederik, who has been the crown prince since the age of three, enjoys widespread support from more than 80 percent of Danes. He is anticipated to bring his unique style to the monarchy, championing environmental causes as an avid sportsman. While his mother is known for her contributions to the arts, Frederik is poised to define his own image and ties to the Danish people.