Royal attendance at Nelson Mandela's memorial service

The state funeral of Nelson Mandela takes place on December 10th and among the mourners will be one king and several monarchs in waiting.  The Dutch court has confirmed that King Willem-Alexander will be at the service.  Along with King Philippe of the Belgians, he is the most senior royal in attendance.  Crown Prince Haakon of Norway, Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark and Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden will be there as will Prince Felipe of Asturias.  Prince Charles will attend the private funeral in Nelson Mandela's hometown of Qunu on December 15th and British representation at the state funeral will be led by Prime Minister, David Cameron.  The presence of two kings and several kings and a queen in waiting in is a major royal representation for the former South African president who met many of Europe's ruling families during the second stage of his public life, following his release from prison. 

 

The Prince of Wales and Nelson Mandela in 2002.  The heir to the British throne will attend the funeral of the former South African president in his hometown of Qunu on December 15th 2013