Margrethe II has today confirmed she will abdicate as the Danish Queen cites health concerns as key reason behind decision.
The Queen of Denmark will step down on January 14 after 52 years on the throne.
She confirmed her eldest son Crown Prince Frederik will succeed her on the throne.
Margrethe, who succeeded her father King Frederik IX in 1972, announced her abdication during her New Year's speech.
Denmark's Queen Margrethe leaves the Christmas Eve service in Aarhus Cathedral
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She said: "In 14 days, I will have been Queen of Denmark for 52 years.
"Such long time does not pass without a trace for any human being - not even me.
"Time goes on, and the 'diseases' increase. You no longer cope with the same things as you once could.
"In February this year, I underwent extensive back surgery. It went well, thanks to the skilled healthcare staff who took care of me.
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Queen Margrethe II of Denmark gives a New Year's speech from Christian IX's Palace, Amalienborg Castle, in Copenhagen, Denmark
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"Of course, the operation also gave rise to thinking about the future - whether the time had come to leave the responsibility to the next generation.“
Margrethe, who became Europe's longest-serving monarch following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022, added: "I have decided that now is the right time. On January 14 2024, 52 years after I succeeded my beloved father, I will step down as Queen of Denmark.
"I leave the throne to my son Crown Prince Frederik. Tonight, first of all, I want to say thank you. Thank you for the overwhelming warmth and support that I have received over the years. A thank you to the changing governments, with whom it has always been rewarding to work together, and to the Danish Parliament, which has always met me with confidence.
"My thanks must go to all the many, many people who, at special events, as well as in everyday life, have surrounded me and my family with loving words and thoughts.
Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Margrethe of Denmark, with Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh and Prince Henrik pose before the state banquet at St George's Hall in Windsor Castle on February 16, 2000 in Windsor, England
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"It has made these years a series of gems. The support and assistance that I have received over the years has been decisive for me being able to carry out my task.
"It is my hope that the new royal couple will be met with the same trust and affection that I have received. They deserve it! Denmark deserves it!"
Margrethe, who was born in 1940, has enjoyed lots of support from Danes during her reign.
She hit the headlines last year after removing royal titles from fringe members, including the children of her younger son Prince Joachim.
Margrethe also enjoyed a close relationship with her cousin Queen Elizabeth II and made several state visits to the United Kingdom.
