First Time in 900 Years: Danish Queen Abdicates Throne

Danish Queen Margrethe II has officially abdicated the throne and handed the crown over to her son, Crown Prince Frederik X. This event marks the first time in 900 years that a Danish monarch has stepped down.

The ceremony took place in Copenhagen, in the presence of members of the state council. It has been reported that Danish tradition does not include a formal coronation process.

In honor of the new king, a celebratory cannon fire will echo from the port of the Danish capital, featuring 27 shots from four cannons. In the evening, a fireworks show will be held at the Tivoli Gardens amusement park in Copenhagen.

Queen Margrethe has been on the Danish throne since January 14, 1972, following the death of her father, King Frederick IX. She announced her intention to abdicate during her New Year's speech in 2023. This decision came as a surprise to both the Danish public and the country’s highest political circles, including Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. Just three days before her New Year's address, Margrethe had only informed her sons, Crown Prince Frederik and Prince Joachim, of her decision.