Margrethe II, Denmark's former monarch, was admitted to a Copenhagen hospital following a fall at her residence, Fredensborg Castle. The 84-year-old royal, who abdicated earlier this year, is reported to be in stable condition.
Lene Balleby, the royal household's head of communications, stated:
"According to the circumstances, the queen is doing well, but was admitted for observation for the time being."
The incident occurred on the evening of September 18, 2024, prompting her hospitalization for precautionary measures. As a result, Margrethe II's scheduled appearance at Aarhus University to commemorate the 75th anniversary of its Archaeology Department has been canceled.
Margrethe II's interest in archaeology is well-documented. She pursued studies in prehistoric archaeology at Copenhagen University and has participated in excavations in Italy and Egypt. This passion reflects her diverse interests, which also include illustration - she has contributed artwork to Danish editions of "The Lord of the Rings."
The former queen's hospitalization comes months after her historic abdication in January 2024. Margrethe II became the first Danish monarch to voluntarily relinquish the throne in nearly nine centuries, citing health concerns and the effects of aging. Her 52-year reign, from 1972 to 2024, made her the longest-reigning monarch in Danish history.
Throughout her time as queen, Margrethe II was known for her artistic talents, linguistic abilities (fluent in five languages), and her annual New Year's Eve speeches. She also made history as the first female monarch of Denmark since the 15th century.
Margrethe II's son, Crown Prince Frederik, assumed the throne following her abdication. The transition marked a significant moment in Danish royal history, reflecting the changing dynamics of modern monarchies.
As Denmark's former queen recovers, her legacy as a multifaceted monarch - from her archaeological pursuits to her artistic endeavors - continues to resonate with the Danish people and beyond.