Origin: Norwegian government declares national mourning

Harald V’s coffin arrived at the Royal Palace in Oslo on Friday evening and lies in state. Crowds filled the palace square on Saturday to pay their respects, with estimates ranging from thousands to tens of thousands. Flags flew at half-mast nationwide and his portrait appeared in public places from bus stops to offices and shops.

A sea of flowers covered the square as people left bouquets and condolence cards. Palace staff cleared some pathways and collected rain-soaked cards to dry and preserve the messages. Across the country, churches and city halls opened specially so people could light candles and write in condolence books.

King Haakon VIII adopted the motto All for Norway and was due to hold audiences with the speaker of parliament, the chief justice and the presiding bishop, with Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra expected to attend. He is expected to address the nation soon and to take his oath before parliament on Tuesday. A funeral date has not been set; Norway is in official mourning and some people have postponed weddings and baptisms.

AI-synthesized from multiple reported sources