The Norwegian royal family will bid farewell to Princess Astrid on September 23 in Oslo. The sister of King Harald, who died on August 28, will be laid to rest at Ris Church, where her husband, Johan Ferner, was buried in 2015.

For the royal family, this is the second memorial service in just a few weeks. According to VG, King Haakon and other members of the family left Skaugum early in the morning, while Mette-Marit traveled to the church later. The church was opened to mourners at 11:45 a.m., with the funeral service taking place in the afternoon.

Mette-Marit Attended Despite Her Ongoing Rehabilitation

Mette-Marit drew particular attention because she has made only a few public appearances this year. In early 2026, she underwent a lung transplant and has since largely stepped back from her royal duties. The royal court had previously announced that she would not undertake any official engagements during her rehabilitation.

As she did at King Harald’s funeral, Mette-Marit made an exception to attend Princess Astrid’s funeral. The two had known each other for more than two decades. Astrid had publicly supported Mette-Marit early in her relationship with the royal family and praised her journey into royal life.

Astrid Had Already Praised Mette-Marit Highly Back in 2012

In 2012, Princess Astrid spoke about the role of the future queen and was very clear in her remarks. Despite her “turbulent” past, Mette-Marit had fulfilled her duties as crown princess remarkably well. “Very good—actually, fantastic,” Astrid said when asked about Mette-Marit’s role within the royal family.

Upon her arrival in Oslo, Mette-Marit wore a black hat with a black suit.

These Royals Came to Oslo for the Funeral

In addition to Queen Sonja, Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra, Princess Märtha Louise, and her husband, Durek Verrett, attended the funeral service. Also in attendance were Märtha Louise’s daughters, Maud Angelica, Leah Isadora, and Emma Tallulah. Crown Princess Victoria traveled from Sweden, while Princess Astrid and Prince Lorenz came from Belgium.

Victoria was spotted there early in the day. She wore a long-sleeved black dress, her hair in a bun, a headband, and pearl earrings. Despite her infrequent public appearances, Astrid was considered a valued member of the royal family.

Princess Anne Sent a Message From Buckingham Palace

No member of the British royal family traveled to Oslo for the funeral, but Princess Anne sent a white wreath of roses with a handwritten message. The card read, “Anne, with love and fond memories.”

It was also notable who was absent from the funeral. Marius Borg Høiby and Prince Sverre Magnus did not attend the service. Sverre Magnus now lives in Portugal, where he is studying.