Queen Margrethe II of Denmark posted a heartfelt message on Instagram today, thanking the people of the Commonwealth for the “great and warm” tributes she received after abdicating “exactly one month ago.”
The former king, who informed the nation in a traditional New Year’s Eve speech that he was abdicating, abdicated on January 14 after 52 years on the throne.
Margrethe’s announcement, one of Denmark’s most popular public figures, was greeted with an outpouring of emotion, with many sending cards and gifts to the 83-year-old royal.
Margrethe’s message, posted by the Danish royal family’s official Instagram account, said: “To everyone who wrote, drew, baked, knitted…or otherwise sent greetings during the transition of the throne.” He expressed his gratitude.
Her message was accompanied by photos of decorated cards she had received, including one depicting the former queen in evening dress and wearing a crown.
Another photo showed a very rosy-faced Margrethe, also wearing a crown on her head, along with a short message.
Margrethe’s post, originally published in Danish, read:
“Since the start of the year, I am delighted to have received so much warm interest from all parts of the Commonwealth in relation to my abdication just a month ago.
“My heart goes out to everyone who wrote, drew, baked, knitted, planted flags, sang or otherwise sent greetings on the occasion of the change of throne. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.” The many greetings have touched my heart, and I am grateful for each one. Queen Margrethe. ”
Reaching around 900 likes in less than an hour, the card posted alongside the post clearly touched the hearts of social media users, with many showing their respect for the former king. She shared a heart emoji.
Queen Margrethe, famous for her chain-smoking and flamboyant sense of style, was succeeded by her eldest son, Crown Prince Frederik.
Margrethe has said in the past that she would remain on the throne for the rest of her life, but did not reveal the exact reason for her decision to abdicate.
But she said undergoing major back surgery last February made her think about her future.
“After undergoing surgery, I naturally started thinking about the future. Is it time to hand over responsibility to the next generation?” she said in a speech.
“I have decided that now is the right time. On January 14, 2024, 52 years after succeeding my beloved father, I will step down as Queen of Denmark.
“I will pass the throne to my son, Crown Prince Frederik.”