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European Royals

King Harald falls as he comes ashore for official visit to Denmark

King Harald of Norway has had a fall as he began his official visit to Denmark.

As he was walking up some steps to greet his host, Queen Margrethe, the King of Norway tripped and fell. He quickly picked himself up again and laughed the incident off.

King Harald joked with Queen Margrethe that he was showing his admiration for her by falling at her feet. The Danish monarch quickly replied, with a smile, ‘’as long as you don’t expect the same from me.’’

The incident happened as King Harald and Queen Sonja arrived in Copenhagen for a two day visit. The King was unhurt in the incident.

They arrived on the royal yacht and came ashore in the Port of Copenhagen by launch. The King and Queen of Norway were walking from their craft to the official welcome platform when the fall happened.

The 86 year old king was using crutches, as he has been for several months now.

Just weeks ago, King Harald had to take a break from official duties after being admitted to hospital in Oslo with an infection which was soon brought under control.

Queen Margrethe has also had a limited official agenda this year as she underwent major back surgery several months ago,

Several of the engagements on this official visit will see the Crown Prince and Princess of Denmark accompany their guests in place of the monarch.

King Harald and Queen Sonja are visiting Denmark from June 15th until June 16th 2023.

About author

Lydia Starbuck is Jubilee and Associate Editor at Royal Central and the main producer and presenter of the Royal Central Podcast and Royal Central Extra. Lydia is also a pen name of June Woolerton who is a journalist and writer with over twenty years experience in TV, radio, print and online. Her latest book, A History of British Royal Jubilees, is out now. Her new book, The Mysterious Death of Katherine Parr, will be published in March 2024. June is an award winning reporter, producer and editor. She's appeared on outlets including BBC 5 Live, BBC Radio Ulster and BBC Local Radio and has also helped set up a commercial radio station. June is also an accomplished writer with a wide range of material published online and in print. She is the author of two novels, published as e-books. She is also a marriage registrar and ceremony celebrant.