Norwegian Princess Astrid dies two days after brother-king's funeral
Princess Astrid, the older sister of the late King Harald V (Getty Images)
Princess Astrid, the older sister of the late King Harald V, has died in Norway. She was 94 years old. Two days before her death, she attended her brother’s funeral, according to the Royal Palace of Norway.
What the royal family said
The palace confirmed that the princess died on Friday, September 11. The cause of death was not specified in the statement released.
As a sign of mourning, the flag on the balcony of the Royal Palace will be flown at half-mast on the day of her death and on the day of her funeral.
"Aunt Astrid was an important source of support for King Harald and the rest of our family," said her nephew, King Haakon VIII of Norway.
He also highlighted her many years of service to the royal family and her care for people who needed special support.
The princess’s children recalled her care, wisdom, and sense of humor in a joint statement.
Princess Astrid with her family (Photo: Getty Images)
According to Reuters, Astrid last appeared in public on September 9, at the funeral of King Harald V in Oslo.
Her younger brother died in August at the age of 89. He had been on the throne for more than 35 years.
What Princess Astrid was known for
According to the biography published by the palace, Astrid served as Norway’s first lady from 1954 to 1968.
She took on the role at the age of 22 following the death of her mother, Crown Princess Märtha.
The princess accompanied her father, King Olav V, on official trips and hosted guests at state events.
After Harald married Sonja in 1968, the duties of first lady passed to his wife, but Astrid continued to represent the royal family.
She headed the Crown Princess Märtha Memorial Fund, which supports social and humanitarian initiatives. The princess is survived by five children.
