Concert and State Banquet in Tallinn During King Frederik's State Visit to Estonia

During the ongoing state visit to Estonia, a special evening at St. Nicholas Church in Tallinn was on the program for King Frederik X and Queen Mary. The ancient church, which today serves as a museum and concert venue, provided a majestic setting for a concert followed by a state banquet. From left: President Alar Karis, Mrs. Sirje Karis, King Frederik and Queen Mary in front of the historic altarpiece in St. Nicholas Church. Photo: The Danish Royal House

Concert in Historic Surroundings

The concert took place in the church itself, with the impressive medieval altarpiece as a backdrop. The Danish royal couple, together with Estonian President Alar Karis and his wife Sirje Karis, also visited the church tower, where they enjoyed views over Tallinn's beautiful old town. Queen Mary radiant during the evening's festivities. Photo: The Danish Royal House

Personal Memories in the King's Speech

During the state banquet, President Karis spoke first, followed by King Frederik. In his speech, the King shared a personal childhood memory: "My first memory of Estonia is a children's song. I no longer remember the words, but I remember Helga, my Estonian nanny, who sang to me in her native language and conveyed glimpses from her homeland, which she had fled as a child during World War II." King Frederik during his speech, with the Estonian and Danish flags in the background. Photo: The Danish Royal House The magnificent state banquet in St. Nicholas Church. Photo: The Danish Royal House

Exchange of High Orders

In connection with the state visit, King Frederik was awarded the chain of the Grand Cross of the Order of Terra Mariana, Estonia's highest distinction. The King had previously received the Grand Cross itself. Queen Mary also received the Grand Cross of the Order of Terra Mariana. At the same time, King Frederik appointed President Alar Karis as a Knight of the Order of the Elephant, Denmark's highest order, while the President's wife Sirje Karis was awarded the Grand Cross of the Order of the Dannebrog.