"Queen Margrethe II of Denmark's Final Royal Journey Precedes Abdication and Ushers in Prince Frederik's Era"

Denmark's Queen Margrethe II took her final carriage ride through Copenhagen before her planned abdication next week, surprising the nation with her decision announced during her New Year's Eve speech. The 83-year-old queen, who ascended to the throne in 1972, will be succeeded by her son, Crown Prince Frederik, who will become King Frederik X. The queen's ride in the gold-coated carriage, a tradition for the New Year's reception, marks the end of her 52-year reign, during which she has been a beloved and creative figure in Danish society.