On 9 September 2026, Oslo hosted the state funeral of King Harald V of Norway. Among the many members of European royal families was Princess Catharina-Amalia of the Netherlands, who came to support her friend, Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra. Both 22, they belong to a generation of future sovereigns who are growing up in the same unique world and supporting one another.

A moment of remembrance and an elegant appearance

Catharina-Amalia appeared in a black Roland Mouret dress, complemented by a Philip Treacy headband with a mourning veil. She joined the procession to Oslo Cathedral before attending the ceremonies surrounding the funeral. King Harald V was later laid to rest in a private ceremony at Akershus Fortress, while members of the royal family subsequently appeared on the balcony of the Royal Palace and attended a reception.

Support for a dear friend

Catharina-Amalia followed Princess Beatrix and other members of the Dutch royal family. When she greeted the Norwegian royal family, she embraced Ingrid Alexandra in a warm gesture of support. Ingrid responded with her hand over her heart, while Amalia briefly touched her arm. The moment, captured by NRK cameras, conveyed a sense of genuine friendship beyond the formal setting of the funeral.

A generation of future sovereigns

Both women are 22 and are destined to become queens. Catharina-Amalia has been Princess of Orange for 13 years and is first in line to the Dutch throne. Ingrid Alexandra became Norway’s heir after the death of her grandfather, King Harald V, and now stands first in line to the Norwegian throne.

Their generation also includes Princess Elisabeth of Belgium. The young royals have spoken about the special nature of their lives and the understanding they share with one another — an understanding that often requires no explanation because they face many of the same expectations and responsibilities.

A bond that endures

Princess Elisabeth has described the women of her generation as being in a similar situation and emphasized the importance of overcoming challenges together. The young royals have met on several occasions, including Ingrid Alexandra’s 18th birthday celebrations in June 2022 and Prince Christian of Denmark’s 18th birthday in October 2023.

Conclusion

The funeral of King Harald V brought together European royals, heads of state and members of the younger generation of heirs. In that solemn setting, the embrace between Catharina-Amalia and Ingrid Alexandra was more than a formal courtesy: it was a quiet expression of friendship, solidarity and mutual support.

(Staff: the Netherlands & Norway / Society & Monarchy)