Sweden's royal future and past

Sweden's royals have a lot to look forward to right now with new baby, Prince Oscar, already growing up into an exciting future and a new prince or princess on the verge of making their debut as Princess Sofia prepares to give birth to her first child. And as enters the final days of her pregnancy. Sofia visited one of the most famous historic sites of Sweden's royal history. Future and past together for one moment in the present day.

Princess Sofia of Sweden in front of the tomb of Karl XII 

(photo Sveriges Kungahuset Instagram)

Sofia was photographed in the Riddarholm Church in Stockholm where she visited the tomb of King Karl XII of Sweden. His reign, between 1697 and 1718 was marked by military campaigns of an epic nature and he was killed while inspecting troops although there have been many rumours and claims that he was murdered. He never married and was succeeded to the throne by his sister, Ulrika Eleonora, who would abdicate not long afterwards in favour of her husband, Frederick, although she was loathe to do it.

King Carl XII of Sweden

Sofia's visit saw future and past collide, just as they had for Crown Princess Victoria a few weeks before the birth of Prince Oscar when she visited the Bernadotte Library at the Royal Palace to look back at her dynasty's history. Among the papers she saw were some relating to the first Bernadotte king, Oscar - so is today's visit a clue to the next royal baby's name? Sofia said that there were names ready for the new prince or princess but they would stay secret until the big announcement after the baby's arrival. And when asked if she was nervous about the birth she said no and added that she was just looking forward to her baby.

Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia are expecting their first baby in April

Sofia had a busy day, also attending a meeting at the Royal Palace focused on children's rights. It was organised by her mother-in-law, Queen Silvia, who was also present and involved organisations helping refugee children and young people arriving in Sweden.

Princess Sofia at today's meeting at the Royal Palace

(photo Sveriges Kungahuset)

Sofia's pregnancy was announced in October 2015 when it was said that her baby was due in April. The new prince or princess will be fifth in line to the throne of Sweden from birth.