Princess Astrid of Norway dies at 94

Princess Astrid of Norway died on Friday, September 11, at the age of 94. Her passing comes just two days after she attended the state funeral of her younger brother, King Harald V.

King Haakon VIII expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Princess Astrid as a warm and dutiful representative of the Royal House who was particularly dedicated to the care and inclusion of vulnerable members of society. He noted that she had served as a significant support to King Harald and the rest of the family.

Princess Astrid, the daughter of King Olav V, had been a prominent figure in the Norwegian monarchy for decades, stepping into a major representative role at age 22 following the death of her mother, Crown Princess Märtha. She is survived by five children: Cathrine, Benedikte, Alexander, Elisabeth, and Carl-Christian Ferner.

In honor of her passing, King Haakon has ordered flags at the Royal Palace to be flown at half-mast. A state funeral will be held, with the date yet to be announced.