Denmark's Queen Margrethe II bows out, new King Frederik X is proclaimed
Huge crowds turned out in force in central Copenhagen to say their farewells and thanks to the country's longest-reigning monarch - and to welcome her son as king.
Sunday 14 January 2024 16:02, UK
Image:King Frederik and Queen Mary share a kiss on the balcony of Christiansborg Palace
Denmark's King Frederik X has been proclaimed as聽the new head of Europe's oldest monarchy during a day of pomp in Copenhagen.
The former crown prince, 55, has officially taken over from his mother Queen Margrethe II, after she stunned the nation on New Year's Eve when she announced her decision to abdicate after 52 years on the throne.
Here are some of the most eye-catching images of the day.
Image:Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary are driven through the streets of Copenhagen to Christiansborg Castle for the ceremony
Image:Denmark's Royal horse guards parade through the streets
Image:Many children in the crowd dressed up
Image:Queen Margrethe arrives by carriage and waves to the crowds in her final moments as head of the monarchy
Image:A member of the crowd holds up a sign reading 'TAK' - which is Danish for 'thank you'
Image:Inside Christiansborg Castle, the moment of destiny - as Queen Margrethe signs her declaration of abdication
Image:The now former queen leaves the place at the head of the table to her son Frederik
Image:Frederik prepares to take his place...
Image: ...as his mother leaves the room - and the throne - to him
Image:Outside, huge crowds gather for a glimpse of their new king
Image:The new King Frederik X grins, and places his hands on his heart, as he emerged on the balcony to huge cheers from the crowd. Pic: AP
Image:His appearance is swiftly followed by Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who proclaims him king
Image:King Frederik and Queen Mary wave to their subjects
Image:King Frederik X appears emotion as he is joined by his wife, the now Queen Mary. Pic: AP
Image:King Frederik and Queen Mary (centre) are joined by their children: (left to right) Princess Isabella, Prince Christian, Princess Josephine and Prince Vincent
Image:King Frederik and Queen Mary ride in a carriage as they greet the cheering crowds following the ceremony
Image:King Frederik waves as he is driven off and prepares to begin his new life as monarch
