Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II, 84, has been discharged from the Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen following a fall at Fredensborg Castle that left her with serious injuries. According to the royal household, the fall caused damage around the neck vertebrae and a fracture in her left hand.
The Queen, who had been under observation at the hospital since her fall on September 18, 2024, is now recovering at home in Fredensborg, but she faces a lengthy recovery process. The palace shared that the Queen’s left hand is in a caste, and she will be wearing a stiff neck collar in the coming months for her injuries.
The fall resulted in the cancellation of several public engagements, and Queen Margrethe will stay away from the public for the foreseeable future. The royal household released a statement reassuring the public that she is in good spirits and doing well, noting that her recovery will require time.
King Frederik X of Denmark shared an update on his mother’s condition, expressing his relief that she is recovering, although she will require a period of rest and rehabilitation. In his statement, Frederik, 55, reassured the public that she is receiving excellent care and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and well wishes from the people of Denmark. He also thanked the hospital staff for their dedication during her treatment.
Queen Margrethe’s fall came just months after she made headlines by abdicating the throne earlier this year due to health concerns. The abdication marked the first time in nearly 900 years that a Danish monarch had voluntarily stepped down. The Queen, who had reigned for 52 years, stated that her decision was driven by health issues that made it difficult for her to continue performing her duties. She had recently undergone back surgery and dealt with various other health issues over the past few years. During her New Year’s address to the kingdom, she acknowledged the impact of aging on her reign.
Known for her resilience and dedication to her country, Queen Margrethe maintained a full schedule throughout her reign, which spanned over five decades. However, her declining health in recent years led to a series of medical procedures, including the aforementioned back surgery, which ultimately influenced her decision to step aside for her son, King Frederik X.
The Queen’s fall and subsequent hospitalization have sparked concern across Denmark, where she remains a beloved figure. While her abdication surprised many, her continued presence in Danish life as the King’s mother has comforted the nation. Public interest in her health has been high, especially following her back surgery earlier this year.
Queen Margrethe is expected to remain at Fredensborg Castle, located north of Copenhagen, where she will continue her recovery. The royal household has not provided details on when or if the Queen will resume any official duties. Given her current health situation, it is likely that the Queen will focus on her rehabilitation over the coming months.