Norway conducted the state funeral for King Harald V today at Oslo Cathedral, marking the end of a 12-day period of national mourning after his death on August 28.

The 89-year-old monarch, who reigned for 35 years as Europe's oldest king at the time, died at Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet from complications related to hemolytic anemia and a bacterial infection. He was succeeded immediately by his son, now King Haakon VIII.

The funeral procession began at noon local time when the coffin left the Royal Palace and was carried to the cathedral. A nationwide minute of silence preceded the 1 p.m. service, which followed the Church of Norway's funeral liturgy. Presiding Bishop Olav Fykse Tveit led the ceremony, assisted by Bishop of Oslo Sunniva Gylver.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and the President of the Storting delivered memorial addresses during the service. Representatives from multiple faiths participated in a candle-lighting ceremony. The coffin, draped in the royal standard, was then transported to Akershus Fortress for private interment in the Royal Mausoleum alongside previous monarchs.

Dignitaries in attendance included Prince William of Wales, Princess Anne, the King and Queen of Denmark, the King and Queen of Sweden, the King and Queen of Spain, the King and Queen of the Netherlands, and other European royals. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also attended, along with numerous heads of state and diplomats.

Large crowds lined the streets of Oslo, and police described the security operation as the largest planned event in the force's history. Over 46,000 people had viewed the coffin during its lying in state at the palace chapel in the preceding days.

Harald V ascended the throne in 1991 and was remembered for modernizing the monarchy while maintaining its traditions. Flags across Norway flew at half-mast until after the burial, when they were raised again.