Norwegians from across the country are gathering in Oslo to bid farewell to King Harald, who passed away at the age of 89 as the oldest monarch in Europe. He is remembered as a unifying father figure for the nation. His death leaves behind a weakened monarchy, and his son, now King Haakon VIII, faces a difficult period ahead. Tributes laid before the Royal Palace in central Oslo demonstrate the Norwegian fondness for crafts, including painted portraits, wooden boats referencing the King’s sailing career – he competed three times in the Olympic Games – and beautifully handwritten cards. The funeral procession began at noon, with the late King’s coffin transported on a military gun carriage along Karl Johan street, past a statue of Karl Johan, towards Oslo Cathedral. King Willem-Alexander, Queen Máxima, and Princess Amalia of the Netherlands are among the foreign dignitaries attending the service, which will conclude at Akershus Fortress with a private ceremony.