The Prince of Wales, Prince William, and the Princess Royal, Princess Anne, were among the distinguished mourners gathered in Oslo Cathedral on Friday to bid farewell to His Majesty King Harald V of Norway.

King Harald, a beloved monarch who reigned for 33 years, passed away on December 2, 2024, at the age of 87. His death marked the end of an era for Norway, triggering a period of national mourning.

Senior members of the Norwegian Royal Family, including Crown Prince Haakon and his wife Crown Princess Mette-Marit, led the funeral service. Other European royal families were also in attendance, underscoring the deep historical and familial ties between the continent's monarchies. The presence of Prince William and Princess Anne signified the strong relationship between the British and Norwegian crowns.

The funeral service was a solemn occasion, reflecting King Harald's deep connection with his people and his commitment to his constitutional role. His reign was characterized by a dedication to modernizing the monarchy while preserving its traditions.

King Harald ascended to the throne in 1991, succeeding his father, King Olav V. Throughout his reign, he was a constant presence in Norwegian public life, undertaking numerous state visits and engaging with citizens across the country. He was known for his approachable demeanor and his passion for sports, particularly sailing.

His Majesty's public life was not without its challenges, including navigating the evolving role of monarchy in a contemporary society. However, he consistently emphasized unity and served as a symbol of national identity for Norwegians.

Following the cathedral service, King Harald's coffin was taken in a procession through the streets of Oslo, allowing the public a final opportunity to pay their respects. The late King is survived by his wife, Queen Sonja, Crown Prince Haakon, and his daughter Princess Märtha Louise.

The funeral marks the official conclusion of the mourning period for the late monarch, with Crown Prince Haakon now set to assume the responsibilities as Norway's new King.