The Norwegian Royal House

The Norwegian monarchy was re-established in 1905 when Norway became independent from Sweden. Prince Carl of Denmark was elected king and took the name Haakon VII.

History

Norway was in union with Denmark from 1380 to 1814, and then with Sweden from 1814 to 1905. When the union with Sweden was dissolved, Norwegians elected Prince Carl of Denmark as their new king. He took the name Haakon VII and founded the modern Norwegian royal house.

The Modern Royal House

King Haakon VII and Queen Maud were crowned in Nidaros Cathedral in 1906. During World War II, Haakon VII refused to cooperate with the German occupiers and became a symbol of Norwegian resistance.

King Harald V was King of Norway from 1991 until his death on August 28, 2026. He was known for his commitment to sports and was himself an active sailor who participated in several Olympic Games. His son King Haakon VIII took the throne the same day.

Official Residences

• The Royal Palace - Official residence in Oslo
• Oscarshall - Pleasure palace on Bygdøy
• Bygdøy Royal Farm - Summer residence
• Stiftsgården - Royal residence in Trondheim
• Gamlehaugen - Royal residence in Bergen
• Ledaal - Royal residence in Stavanger
• The Royal Yacht Norge - The royal vessel

Private Properties

• Skaugum - the royal family's residence in Asker
• Kongsseteren - Voksenkollen, Oslo
• Prinsehytta - Sikkilsdalen
• Mågerø - Tjøme

Monarchs since 1905

• Haakon VII (1905-1957)
• Olav V (1957-1991)
• Harald V (1991-2026)
• Haakon VIII (2026-)