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 following her abdication “exactly a month ago.”
The former monarch, who announced her resignation to the nation in her traditional New Year's Eve address, abdicated on January 14 after 52 years on the throne.
As one of Denmark's most popular public figures, Margrethe's announcement sparked great emotions, prompting many to send cards and gifts to the 83-year-old queen.
Posted on the Danish royal family's official Instagram account, Margrethe's message thanked “everyone who either wrote, drew, baked, knitted… or otherwise sent a greeting on the occasion of the change of throne.”
Accompanying her message was a photo of some of the decorative cards she received, including one depicting the former queen in an evening gown and wearing a crown.
Queen Margrethe received cards and gifts from people at home and abroad, one of which showed her in full evening dress and a crown (left).
The Queen announced she was stepping down in her traditional address to the nation on New Year's Eve and abdicated two weeks later on January 14
Another showed a very rosy Margrethe, also with a crown on her head, and was accompanied by a short message.
Margrethe's post, originally published in Danish, read as follows:
“Since the turn of the year, I have been pleased by the great and warm attention from all parts of the Commonwealth in connection with my abdication exactly one month ago.”
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the gifts I received and to everyone who either wrote, drew, baked, knitted, flagged, sang or otherwise sent a greeting on the occasion of the change of throne.” The many greetings went to me to my heart and I appreciated each and every one of them. Queen Margrethe.'
The post and cards racked up nearly 900 likes in less than an hour and were shared by clearly touched social media users. Some of them shared heart emojis to express their respect for the former monarch.
Queen Margrethe, who was known for her chain smoking and flamboyant sense of style, was succeeded by her eldest son, Crown Prince Frederik.
Margrethe, who has promised in the past to remain on the throne for the rest of her life, did not give specific reasons for her resignation.
Margrethe posted a message on Instagram to thank her for the support she has received since announcing her abdication
However, she said major back surgery she underwent in February last year had made her think about her future.
“The operation has of course given rise to reflection about the future – whether it is time to pass responsibility to the next generation,” she said in her speech.
“I have decided that now is the right time.” On January 14, 2024, 52 years after I succeeded my beloved father, I will step down as Queen of Denmark.
“I leave the throne to my son, Crown Prince Frederik.”
Queen Margrethe of Denmark