ROYALS

Queen Margrethe’s Reign in Retrospect

A Visual Journey Through Her Remarkable Life
Loading the player...

Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II has announced her decision to abdicate the throne after an illustrious reign spanning several decades.

Watch Below: Kings and Queens from across Europe wish Queen Margrethe a Happy Birthday

As the nation prepares to bid adieu to a monarch known for her dedication and unwavering commitment, let us take a reflective glimpse into the life of Queen Margrethe through a series of captivating images that encapsulate her reign.

queen margrethe as a child
Princess Margrethe Of Denmark Around 1941-1942. (Credit: Getty)

Early Years and Royal Lineage

Born on April 16, 1940, to Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Ingrid of Denmark, Margrethe was destined for a life of royalty. Surrounded by the love and heritage of the Danish royal family, her upbringing instilled in her a deep sense of duty and responsibility towards her nation, preparing her for the role she was destined to play.

queen margrethe as a child
Margrethe’s artistic works are exhibited in museums across the world. (Credit: Getty)

Educational Pursuits and Talents

Known for her artistic flair, Queen Margrethe’s talent in painting and design has been an integral part of her identity. 

queen margrethe wedding day
Princess Margrethe of Denmark weds Prince Henrik, 10 June 1967. (Credit: Getty)
queen margrethe family
Princess Margrethe of Denmark and her husband Prince Henrik with their children Princes Frederik and Joachim circa 1970. (Credit: Getty)

Marriage and Family Life

In 1967, Margrethe married Henri de Laborde de Monpezat, together, they raised two sons, Crown Prince Frederik and Prince Joachim. 

queen margrethe and husband 1972
ortrait of Queen Margrethe of Denmark and her husband Prince Henrik, March 16th 1972. (Credit: Getty)

Ascension to the Throne

The year 1972 marked a pivotal moment in Danish history as Queen Margrethe ascended to the throne following the death of her father, King Frederik IX. 

queen margrethe and queen elizabeth
Queen Margrethe and Prince Henrik of Denmark with Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh at Windsor Castle in 1974. (Credit: Getty)
queen margrethe and nelson mandela
President Nelson Mandela of South Africa, with Queen Margrethe of Denmark in 1999. (Credit: Getty)

Engagement with Society and Diplomacy

Throughout her reign, Queen Margrethe remained an emblematic figure, actively engaging with society, fostering diplomatic relations, and championing various causes close to her heart. 

Queen Margrethe Of Denmark Celebrates Her 78th Birthday
Queen Margrethe Of Denmark Celebrates Her 78th Birthday. (Credit: Getty)

Celebrations and Milestones

Amidst her royal duties, Queen Margrethe also celebrated numerous milestones and anniversaries, marking decades of service to Denmark. 

queen margrethe abdication announcement new years eve
Queen Margrethe II of Denmark has announced her plans to abdicate during the New Year’s Eve televised address. (Credit: Getty)

Legacy and Fond Farewell

As Queen Margrethe gracefully steps down from the throne, her legacy as a compassionate, dedicated, and forward-thinking monarch will endure.

In bidding farewell to Queen Margrethe’s reign, Denmark reflects not just on the end of an era but on a lifetime of service, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the nation and its people.

Following the Queen’s abdication announcement, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen released a statement praising the long-reigning monarch. 

“On behalf of the entire population, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Her Majesty The Queen for her lifelong dedication and tireless efforts for the Kingdom,” she said in a statement.

“Queen Margrethe is the epitome of Denmark and throughout the years has put words and feelings into who we are as a people and as a nation.”

Related stories