Funeral of Princess Astrid Held in Oslo
Princess Astrid of Norway, the older sister of the late King Harald V, was laid to rest on September 23, 2026, at Ris Church in Oslo. The private funeral came just two weeks after the state funeral of King Harald V, who died earlier in September. Princess Astrid, who was 94, passed away on September 11, only two days after attending her brother's funeral. Her death marks the end of an era for the Norwegian royal family, which has now lost two of its most senior members in quick succession.
The service was officiated by the Archbishop of Oslo and was attended by close family members, including King Haakon, Queen Mette-Marit, Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra, and Queen Sonja. Queen Sonja, who was married to King Harald for 57 years, appeared grieving but was supported by her granddaughter, Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra. The 22-year-old heir apparent was seen comforting her grandmother throughout the somber occasion. Princess Astrid's children and other relatives were also present, along with royal guests from across Europe: Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, Princess Astrid of Belgium, Prince Lorenz, Archduke of Austria-Este, Princess Margaretha of Luxembourg and Liechtenstein, and Prince Jean of Luxembourg.
A Life of Service
Princess Astrid was a working member of the Norwegian royal family for over 75 years. She was born in 1932 and was the second child of King Olav V and Crown Princess Märtha. After the death of her mother in 1954, she served as Norway's first lady for her father and later for her brother, King Harald V, from 1954 to 1968. She was known for her dedication to charitable causes and her warm personality. In her later years, she was often seen with her beloved chihuahua, Wilma, who was a constant companion. Her funeral was broadcast live on Norwegian television, and the Royal House shared a poignant black-and-white image of Astrid and Harald together ahead of the service.
A Royal Family in Mourning
The Norwegian royal family has faced a difficult period. King Harald V, who had been on the throne since 1991, died in early September after a long illness. His state funeral on September 9 was attended by royals from around the world, including King Charles III, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, and Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden. Princess Astrid was present at her brother's funeral, despite her advanced age and frail health. Her death just two days later shocked the nation and deepened the family's grief.
Now, the family must navigate a new chapter. King Haakon, the late king's son, ascended to the throne immediately upon his father's death. His wife, Mette-Marit, became queen, and their daughter, Ingrid Alexandra, is now crown princess and heir apparent. The transition has been swift and emotional. At Princess Astrid's funeral, King Haakon took on a poignant role, leading the family in mourning. Queen Sonja, who has been a central figure in the Norwegian monarchy for decades, is now a widow and has lost her sister-in-law and close friend.
Support from European Royals
The presence of European royals at Princess Astrid's funeral underscores the close ties between the Scandinavian and European monarchies. Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, who is a goddaughter of King Harald, was visibly moved. Princess Astrid of Belgium and Princess Margaretha of Luxembourg, both named after the late princess, paid their respects. The funeral was not a state event, but the attendance of foreign royals reflected the high regard in which Princess Astrid was held.
What This Means for the Norwegian Monarchy
The deaths of King Harald and Princess Astrid mark a significant generational shift for the Norwegian royal family. King Haakon, 49, now leads the monarchy with Queen Mette-Marit. Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra, 22, has already stepped into a more prominent role, demonstrating poise and maturity beyond her years. She has been praised for her support of her grandmother and her dignified presence at both funerals.
Princess Astrid's legacy is one of service and dedication. She was a link to a bygone era, having served under three monarchs: her father, King Olav V; her brother, King Harald V; and now her nephew, King Haakon. Her passing, so soon after her brother's, has left a void in the royal family. The Norwegian people have also felt the loss deeply, as Princess Astrid was a beloved figure known for her warmth and accessibility.
Looking ahead, the royal family will continue to adapt to its new structure. The focus will be on supporting King Haakon and Queen Mette-Marit as they take on their new roles, and on preparing Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra for her future responsibilities. The double tragedy has brought the family closer together, as seen in the tender moments between Ingrid Alexandra and Queen Sonja. As Norway mourns, the royal family's resilience and unity will be key to navigating this period of transition.
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