Young Scandinavian royals led the celebrations in Norway this weekend as the new national opera house was officially opened in the capital amid a blaze of colourful fireworks seen for miles across the Oslo Fjord.
Crown Prince Haakon and his wife Princess Mette-Marit - elegant in an ivory gown and black jacket - were joined by Sweden's Crown Princess Victoria and Denmark's Queen Margrethe at the gala event on Saturday.
"The opera house rises as a new and monumental landmark," said King Harald, speaking at the inaugural concert. "This house, for many generations to come, will be filled with music, dance and song."
"We've gained a place for major theatrical and musical events," he added.
The largest cultural centre to open in Norway for 700 years, the £424-million white marble and glass landmark has been praised by architects and locals alike. It has been described as symbolising the icebergs and winter landscape of the country.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
