Born at Skaugum
Harald is born to Crown Prince Olav and Crown Princess Märtha – the first prince born on Norwegian soil in 567 years.
A Life of Service
The King's Life
Exile during the war
When Norway is occupied, the young prince flees with his mother and sisters. The family returns to a free Norway on 7 June 1945.
Years of study
Harald studies history, economics and political science at Oxford, and completes military officer training back home in Norway.
Marriage to Sonja
After nine years, Harald marries Sonja Haraldsen – a marriage across class that changed the Norwegian monarchy forever.
A royal sailor
A passionate sailor all his life, Harald represents Norway in sailing at three Olympic Games.
King of Norway
On the death of King Olav V, Harald accedes as King of Norway, and is consecrated in Nidaros Cathedral that summer. Norway holds no coronation.
“Norwegians are...”
In a historic speech the King embraces the whole nation: Norwegians are young and old, tall and short, and come from near and far. The speech comes to define his reign.
Farewell to a king
King Harald V passes away at Oslo University Hospital, aged 89, after 34 years on the throne. He is succeeded by his son, King Haakon VIII.