Queen Margrethe II of Denmark has been discharged from the hospital after a fall that left her with injuries to her neck vertebrae and a fractured left hand.

The incident took place earlier this week at Fredensborg Castle, north of Copenhagen, and the Danish royal's condition required medical attention, and she was promptly admitted to the university hospital in Copenhagen but has since been released to begin what is described as a lengthy recovery period, as ABC News reports.

The fall occurred in the evening, leading to Margrethe's hospitalization late Wednesday. According to the royal household, she is currently recovering at home.

The 83-year-old monarch will need to wear a stiff neck collar for several months, and her left hand remains in a cast due to the fracture.

Several Public Appearances Canceled

The injuries have forced Queen Margrethe to cancel several scheduled public engagements. Her recovery will be a gradual process, with the palace noting that she is expected to be “in recovery for a longer period of time.” Despite the physical challenges, the queen is reportedly in good spirits.

The palace has reassured the public that the queen is “doing well.” However, her ability to return to normal duties will depend on how her recovery progresses over the coming months.

Historic Abdication

This incident comes in the wake of a historic year for Queen Margrethe. In January, she made headlines by becoming the first Danish monarch in nearly 900 years to abdicate the throne. The decision was largely influenced by her declining health, including a back surgery and several other ailments.

Her son, King Frederik X, has since ascended the throne following her abdication. This transition marked a significant moment in Danish royal history, as it broke with a nearly millennia-old tradition of monarchs ruling until death.

Fall Adds to Health Challenges

The recent fall adds to the health struggles Queen Margrethe has faced over the past year. While her back surgery earlier in the year was successful, it played a role in her decision to step down from her royal duties. At the time of her abdication, she acknowledged the toll that time had taken on her body, stating in her New Year’s address, “Time takes its toll.”

Now, with the additional injuries from her fall, the queen’s recovery will likely take even more time. Medical professionals expect her to experience lingering effects from the injuries, particularly in her neck, for several months.

Returning to Fredensborg Castle

After her hospital stay, Queen Margrethe returned to Fredensborg Castle, where she will continue her recovery. The castle, located just outside of Copenhagen, has been a longtime residence of the Danish royal family. As her public appearances remain on hold, her focus will be on rest and rehabilitation.

Although the queen is now back in familiar surroundings, the road to full recovery may be long. She will continue to receive medical support during this time, as she adjusts to wearing a neck collar and managing her hand injury.

Ongoing Impact on Royal Duties

The queen’s injuries and ongoing recovery will likely have a lasting impact on her ability to fulfill any remaining royal duties. While King Frederik X has taken on most responsibilities following her abdication, Queen Margrethe had still been involved in certain ceremonial functions. It remains uncertain when, or if, she will resume these roles.

For now, the Danish royal family is focused on her health and recovery. As the monarch recovers, the palace will continue to provide updates on her condition and any changes to her public appearances.

A Monarch's Legacy

Even before her fall, Queen Margrethe had left a lasting legacy as one of Denmark’s most revered monarchs. Her decision to abdicate in January marked the end of an era. Having ruled for over 50 years, she saw Denmark through significant social and political changes.

Her abdication allowed for a smooth transition of power to King Frederik X, who has taken on his new role with widespread public support. While her health challenges may prevent her from being as visible as she once was, Queen Margrethe remains an important figure in Danish history.

Conclusion

Queen Margrethe II of Denmark has been discharged from the hospital following a fall that caused injuries to her neck vertebrae and a fracture in her left hand. After being admitted to a hospital in Copenhagen, she returned to Fredensborg Castle, where she will continue to recover.

Several public appearances have been canceled as she faces a long recovery period.

Earlier this year, Margrethe became the first Danish monarch to abdicate the throne in nearly 900 years, passing the crown to her son, King Frederik X, after back surgery and other ailments influenced her decision.

Though her recovery will take time, the queen is reportedly in good spirits.