Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, aged 84, has been released from the Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen after a severe fall at Fredensborg Castle. The royal household announced that the incident resulted in injuries to her neck area and a broken left hand.
The Queen had been in the hospital since her accident on September 18, 2024, and is now convalescing at her home in Fredensborg. Her recovery will require an extended period due to the severity of her injuries. The royal household stated that the Queen’s left hand is in a cast, and she will be required to wear a rigid neck brace in the upcoming months.
Due to her injuries, Queen Margrethe has had to cancel numerous public appearances and will be absent from public view for the foreseeable future. A statement from the royal household reassured the public that she is in good spirits and faring well, albeit her recovery will take time.
King Frederik X of Denmark released a statement on his mother’s health, expressing relief over her recovery but acknowledging the need for a period of rest and rehabilitation. In his statement, Frederik, 55, reassured the public that the Queen is in excellent care and expressed gratitude for the support and well wishes from the Danish people. He also extended his thanks to the hospital staff for their commitment during her treatment.
The Queen’s fall occurred just a few months after she made headlines by relinquishing the throne earlier this year due to health concerns. This marked the first time in almost 900 years that a Danish monarch voluntarily abdicated. The Queen, who reigned for 52 years, cited health challenges that made it hard for her to continue fulfilling her duties. She had recently undergone back surgery and had been dealing with various health issues over the past few years. In her New Year’s address, she acknowledged the effects of aging on her ability to reign.
Despite her declining health in recent years, Queen Margrethe was known for her resilience and commitment to her role, maintaining a full schedule throughout her 52-year reign. However, her health problems, including back surgery, eventually influenced her decision to step aside in favor of her oldest son, King Frederik X.
The Queen’s recent fall and subsequent hospital stay have raised concerns throughout Denmark, where she continues to be a cherished figure. While her abdication caught many by surprise, her continued role in Danish life as King Frederik’s mother brings comfort to the nation. Public interest in her well-being remains high, particularly following her back surgery earlier this year.
Queen Margrethe is expected to stay at Fredensborg Castle, located north of Copenhagen, during her recovery. The royal household has not indicated when, or if, the Queen will return to any official duties. Given her current health condition, the focus for the coming months will likely be on her rehabilitation.
