Norway’s 89-year-old King Harald has been taken to a hospital in Tenerife while on vacation due to a concerning infection. The Royal House of Norway confirmed that King Harald V is receiving treatment for an infection and dehydration at Hospital Universitario Hospiten Sur. Despite his condition, the King’s health is considered good at this time. Further updates on his health will be provided following a physician’s assessment.
King Harald, who is Europe’s oldest living monarch, has served as Norway’s head of state since 1991. Recently, on February 11, he participated in the opening of the Total Defence Year 2026 where he was seen using walking aids.
Celebrating his 89th birthday on Saturday, the King broke tradition as the Royal House of Norway did not release a solo portrait but shared a photo of him alongside Crown Prince Haakon and Princess Ingrid Alexandra. The palace extended birthday wishes to King Harald through an Instagram post, highlighting the special occasion and the King’s companions in the picture.
Having been married for 58 years, King Harald and Queen Sonja’s relationship faced significant opposition in its early stages, with some questioning its compatibility with the Norwegian monarchy. Their love story, marked by initial controversy and societal pressure, is set to be featured in an upcoming series on Amazon Prime called “Harald and Sonja.”
The couple’s journey began in the late 1950s when they met at a friend’s dinner gathering, sparking a relationship that faced challenges due to their differing backgrounds and familial expectations. Despite objections from King Olav, the pair’s commitment to each other prevailed, leading to a public acknowledgment of their relationship within a few years.
The persistent societal scrutiny and disapproval did not deter the couple, who faced numerous obstacles but remained steadfast in their love for each other.
