Princess Astrid’s funeral service held

The Norwegian royal family gathered in Oslo for the funeral service of Princess Astrid who died earlier this month aged 94. 

Flags were at half-mast today as Princess Astrid’s funeral was held after a lifetime of royal service. The Princess died on 11 September, aged 94, just two days after attending the funeral ceremonies of her late younger brother, King Harald V.

Astrid was the last surviving child of King Olav V and Crown Princess Märtha, bringing a generation to a close for the Norwegian royal house. She served as the country’s first lady following the death of her mother for over fourteen years.

On Wednesday afternoon in Oslo, European royalty was in attendance to support their cousins in what King Haakon described as a “great loss for us” the day she died. Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, Prince Jean of Luxembourg, Princess Margaretha of Liechtenstein, as well as Princess Astrid and Prince Lorenz of Belgium arrived ahead of the Norwegian royals being greeted by clergy.

Princess Astrid’s family were also present who, at the conclusion of the service, placed red roses atop the coffin. The family, with King Haakon, then carried the late Princess Astrid to a waiting hearse outside Ris Church.

Further details regarding Princess Astrid’s final resting place and arrangement will be made public in due course.