Sonja Haraldsen (b. 1937)

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Biography

Sonja is Queen of Norway as the wife of King Harald V. She is Norway's first queen consort since Queen Maud, the wife of King Haakon VII who died in 1938.

Timeline

The story of Sonja Haraldsen, told in moments.

1959 Life

Began a secret relationship with Crown Prince Harald of Norway. They dated for nine years in private because she was a commoner. Harald told his father King Olav V he would remain unmarried if he couldn't marry Sonja.

How did you endure nine years of secret dating? Did you ever doubt Harald would choose you over the throne? What did his ultimatum to the king mean to you?

1968 Event

Married Crown Prince Harald at Oslo Cathedral after Olav finally granted consent. The nine-year wait had tested both of them. Norway hadn't had a queen consort since Maud died in 1938.

What was the wedding at Oslo Cathedral like after nine years of waiting? Did Norway accept you immediately as future queen? Was that day relief or triumph?

1991 Event

Became Queen of Norway when Harald ascended the throne. In 2005, she became the first queen to visit Antarctica. Founded both an international music competition and a print art award in her name.

What does being queen of Norway mean to you personally? Was visiting Antarctica a personal dream or a statement? Does the music competition carry a piece of your identity?

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