King Haakon VIII takes throne as Norway mourns death of King Harald

Norway opened a new chapter in its history on Saturday under King Haakon VIII, after the death of his father Harald, a unifying figure who was on the throne for 35 years.

A national period of mourning was declared in the Scandinavian kingdom following the king’s death on Friday at 6.35am, aged 89.

Norwegians gathered on Saturday ⁠to say goodbye to ⁠the king in front of the ⁠royal palace, where he lies in state, with many well-wishers remembering his sense of inclusiveness and tolerance.

Haakon, 53, takes over a monarchy hailed for its modernity and modesty but which has been beset by a string of recent scandals.

“An era has ended. A new one begins. The king is dead. Long live the king,” Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said in a speech shortly after meeting the new monarch. “We will remember King Harald for his love for his people, for his humour and warmth, and for his unwavering faith in us.”

Well-wishers lined the streets to watch a motorcade bring Harald’s casket from Oslo University Hospital to the royal palace on Friday evening.