Symbol Of Norway
Norway's King Harald has died aged 89, the palace announced on Friday. His 53-year-old son Crown Prince Haakon automatically succeeds him on the throne.
"It is with deep sadness that we announce that His Majesty King Harald passed away today. King Harald passed away peacefully at Oslo University Hospital on Friday, August 28 at 6:35 am," the palace said in a statement.
The flag at the royal palace in Oslo was lowered to half-mast, as crowds streamed to the palace courtyard to pay their respects. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store said he had received the news with "deep sorrow."
"An entire nation mourns, and at the same time remains profoundly grateful for a long life devoted to Norway," he said. "King Harald loved Norway. And Norway loved its king."
Hundreds of flowers had already been laid outside the palace the day before, after it was announced the king was in "extremely serious" condition in hospital. "He's a symbol of our country. And naturally, it's sad when something so beautiful comes to an end," one Norwegian told AFP.
Many pointed in particular to Harald's speech after the neo-Nazi Anders Behring Breivik claimed 77 lives in twin attacks on July 22, 2011, Norway's worst massacre since World War II. His ability to unify people was widely praised.
Neighbouring Sweden's King Carl XVI Gustaf called him "an outstanding representative of his country. He gave 'All for Norway,'" referring to Harald's royal motto. Denmark's King Frederik called the late monarch "an extraordinary man." British King Charles III said he mourned the death of his "dear cousin," hailing Harald as a "towering figure."
Europe's oldest reigning monarch, King Harald had been in hospital since August 17 suffering from haemolytic anaemia, a condition caused by an abnormally rapid destruction of red blood cells which leads to fatigue and shortness of breath. The royal family had rushed to his bedside, with media reporting that Haakon kept vigil overnight.
Church bells were to ring across Norway at noon to mark the king's passing. Haakon's 22-year-old daughter Ingrid Alexandra automatically becomes crown princess.