A hug for a queen from Europe’s longest serving heir to the throne

The Queen of Denmark was given a big hug to welcome her at the start of an historic event by a friend who also has her own place in royal history.

As Queen Mary stepped ashore in Sweden at the start of the first State Visit since her husband took the Danish throne, the future monarch of Sweden curtsied to her visitor then cuddled her.

Crown Princess Victoria is a great friend of Queen Mary, and named her daughter in honour of the Danish consort, and she was keen to extend a warm welcome as the State Visit began.

The Crown Princess’ daughter, another future queen, was also part of the welcoming committee. Princess Estelle Silvia Eva Mary, second in line to the Swedish throne, stood on the Royal Palace balcony with her handmade Danish flag to wave at Queen Mary and King Frederik as they began their State Visit.

Victoria is now the longest serving heir in Europe. She has been Crown Princess since January 1st 1980 when Swedish laws changed and placed her above her younger brother, Prince Carl Philip, in the line to the throne.

The State Visit of the King and Queen of Denmark to Sweden marks a major milestone in the reign of Frederik X. The two day event was filled with pomp and ceremony with a spectacular official welcome offered by King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia.

On the evening of the first day, the King and Queen of Sweden hosted a glittering State Banquet for the King and Queen of Denmark which was attended by many members of the Swedish royal family.

Crown Princess Victoria and her husband, Prince Daniel, were joined by Prince Carl Philip and his wife, Princess Sofia, as well as by Princess Christina, sister to King Carl XVI Gustaf.

Ahead of the meal, the Danish king and queen posed for an official portrait with the Swedish king and queen.

Queen Mary made a touching nod to her hosts with her choice of tiara. She wore the ruby jewels that belonged to Queen Ingrid of Denmark who was born a princess of Sweden.