Foreign Monarchs Close to the British Throne: An Overview of European Succession Lines

The intricate lines of European royal succession often intertwine in fascinating ways. In the British line of succession, one of the most notable cases is the position of King Harald V of Norway, who currently ranks 85th in line for the British throne. This article will explore how foreign monarchs can find themselves close to the British throne and provide a detailed overview of the current European royal succession lines.

The Case of King Harald V of Norway

King Harald V of Norway, currently the reigning monarch, has a familial connection that allows him to appear in the British line of succession. In 2021, he was 81st in line; however, with the recent births of several great-grandchildren of Queen Elizabeth II, his position might have shifted. Due to the complex rules of royal succession, it is estimated that he is now around 85th. A monarch from another country holding such a high position is indeed rare, making this a noteworthy exception.

Other Notable European Royals with Connections to the British Throne

In addition to King Harald V of Norway, several other European royals find themselves with connections to the British line of succession. Here are some of the notable positions held by royals from other countries:

Norway

80. King Harald V of Norway 81. Haakon, Crown Prince of Norway 82. Prince Sverre Magnus of Norway 83. Princess Ingrid Alexandra of Norway 84. Princess Martha Louise of Norway 85. Maud Angelica Behn 86. Leah Isadora Behn 87. Emma Tallulah Behn 88. Haakon Lorentzen 89. Olav Alexander Lorentzen 90. Christian Frederik Lorentzen 91. Sophia Lorentzen 92. Ingeborg Ribeiro Lorentzen 93. Victoria Ragna Lorentzen Ribeiro 94. Frederik Sven Lorentzen Falco 95. Ragnhild Alexandra Lorentzen 96. Alexandra Joyce Lorentzen Long 97. Elizabeth Lorentzen Long 98. Princess Astrid of Norway 99. Alexander Ferner 100. Stella Ferner

Sweden

293. King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden 294. Carl Philip, Prince of Sweden 297. Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden 298. Princess Estelle of Sweden 299. Prince Oscar of Sweden 300. Princess Madeleine of Sweden 301. Princess Leonore of Sweden 302. Prince Nicolas of Sweden 303. Princess Adrienne of Sweden

Denmark

361. Queen Margrethe II of Denmark 362. Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark 363. Prince Christian of Denmark 364. Prince Vincent of Denmark 365. Princess Josephine of Denmark 366. Prince Joachim of Denmark 367. Prince Nikolai of Denmark 368. Prince Felix of Denmark 369. Prince Henrik of Denmark 370. Princess Athena of Denmark 371. Princess Benedikte of Denmark

Conclusion

While a foreign monarch finding themselves close to the British throne is rare, it is not unheard of. The current succession lines make it clear that many European royals can claim positions in the line of succession for the British throne. These connections reflect the depth of royal ties and the complex history of European monarchies.

The rules of succession in the British royal family are a testament to the enduring nature of tradition and royal lineage. As new members are born into these noble families, the ranks of the line of succession continue to evolve, ensuring that the intricate web of royal connections remains a significant part of European history.

Keywords: British throne, European monarchies, royal succession