Oslo was densely packed with people standing along both sides of the streets to join in the final farewell to King Harald V, while royals and global leaders arrived to participate in the funeral ceremony.
Thousands of Norwegians gathered on the streets of Oslo to pay their last respects to King Harald V at his funeral on 9 September, amid an atmosphere of mourning and sorrow following his death on 28 August at age 89.
The funeral procession moved from the palace to Oslo Cathedral, with crowds lining both sides of the route, many waving Norwegian flags to show their respect, while a 21-gun salute was fired in honor of the king.
King Haakon VIII, the king's son who succeeded him, joined the procession accompanying the royal coffin along with other members of the royal family, while Queen Sonja, the king's mother, and Queen Mette-Marit, the consort, traveled in the royal car.
The ceremony was attended by royals from several countries, including kings and family members from Sweden, Denmark, Spain, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Monaco, and Jordan, as well as Prince William of Wales and Prince Akishino of Japan, along with leaders from more than 20 nations.
At the start of the funeral, people across the country paused all activities and stood silently for one minute in tribute, while many public venues such as churches, libraries, cultural centers, and town halls opened spaces for the public to watch the ceremony on large screens.
King Harald V passed away on 28 August at age 89, after a 35-year reign. He was a beloved monarch known for his simple and approachable image and close connection with the people.
After the ceremony at Oslo Cathedral, the royal coffin was moved to Akershus Fortress for further rites, with King Haakon VIII walking alongside King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden and King Frederik X of Denmark.
.AP
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