Norway's King Harald V, who passed away on August 28, was recently laid to rest in a unique sarcophagus designed to absorb carbon dioxide, as reported by the Norwegian Royal Palace. This environmentally conscious choice reflects the king and queen's lifelong dedication to nature and their concern for future generations. The sarcophagus, shaped like a ship and carved from olivine—a greenish rock about 400 million years old from western Norway—was placed in the royal mausoleum at Akershus Fortress. The tomb, which cost 20 million Norwegian crowns (around 1.7 million euros), is made entirely of olivine, a mineral known for its ability to absorb and store CO2.
The design of the sarcophagus, with its green olive color and rounded, ship-like shape, pays homage to King Harald's deep love for the sea. It also draws inspiration from ancient burial practices, including those of the Vikings, where ships were believed to guide the deceased to the afterlife. Harald himself once humorously remarked, "I hope it will be well padded so that the stay is comfortable. We will be there for quite some time." This sentiment reflects his characteristic sense of humor and acceptance of his mortality.
The sarcophagus is not alone in the royal mausoleum. Beside it lies another, made of white marble, which holds the remains of Haakon VII, the first king of Norway's current dynasty, and his wife Queen Maud. This king was the grandfather of Harald V. A third sarcophagus, crafted from dark green patinated bronze, contains the remains of Harald's parents, King Olav V and Princess Märtha, who was the heir to the throne.
This unique burial site not only serves as a resting place for Norway's royal family but also stands as a tribute to the values of sustainability and environmental care that King Harald and Queen Sonja championed throughout their lives. The choice of materials and design underscores their legacy, ensuring that their contributions to nature and the environment will be remembered for generations to come.
Norway's King Harald V Buried in CO2-Absorbing Sarcophagus Inspired by Viking Ship Design
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