Norway mourns King Harald as crowds gather at royal palace

Norwegians were gathering on Saturday to say goodbye to King Harald in front of the royal palace, where he lies in state, with many well-wishers remembering his sense of inclusiveness and tolerance.

Europe's oldest monarch, who emerged from the shadow of his well-loved, extrovert father to become a reformer during more than three decades on the throne, died on Friday at the age of 89.

Late on Friday, throngs pressed the streets of Oslo under the pouring rain to watch the funeral cortege as it left Oslo University Hospital, where Harald passed away, to reach the royal palace.

At a later point, Norwegians will be able to pay their respects in front of his coffin inside the royal chapel.

When that happens, his coffin will stand on a purple-draped catafalque, with the family wreath attached and the symbols of monarchy, a crown, sword, sceptre and orb, placed on top until the funeral takes place. The date has not yet been made public.

Flags were flying at half-mast throughout the country and portraits of the late king in gala uniform were everywhere, from bus stops and metro stations to shops, offices and public buildings.

As Norwegians mourned Harald, the transition to a new reign began immediately.

Harald's 53-year-old son became Norway's new king the moment his father passed away. He said he would be known as King Haakon VIII.

He will speak to the nation in a televised address at 19:00 local time (17:00 GMT) on Saturday.

On Tuesday, he will take the oath in front of parliament, when he will swear to defend Norway's constitution and laws.