Belgian Royals Dazzle in Historic Tiaras at Norway State Banquet

Queen Mathilde and Queen Sonja wore iconic headpieces with fascinating backstories.

Mar. 25, 2026 at 12:43am by Ben Kaplan

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Norway is hosting a state visit from King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium this week, which included a formal state banquet at the Royal Palace in Oslo. Queen Sonja led the procession into the gala dinner wearing Queen Maud's Pearl Tiara, a replica of an important Norwegian royal heirloom. Meanwhile, Queen Mathilde donned the Nine Provinces Tiara, a wedding gift to a previous Belgian royal. The visit comes at a tumultuous time for the Norwegian royal family, as Crown Princess Mette-Marit deals with health issues and her son faces legal troubles.

Why it matters

The display of these historic tiaras highlights the enduring traditions and symbolism of royal fashion, as well as the deep ties between the Belgian and Norwegian monarchies. The state visit also comes at a challenging moment for the Norwegian royals, underscoring the complexities they navigate as public figures.

The details

At the state banquet, Queen Sonja wore a replica of Queen Maud's Pearl Tiara, an heirloom that was originally a wedding gift to a Norwegian princess in 1896. The original was stolen in 1995 and has never been recovered, so Sonja has worn the replica version since then. Meanwhile, Queen Mathilde donned the Nine Provinces Tiara, a wedding gift to a previous Belgian royal that can be worn in two different styles.

  • The state banquet took place on the evening of March 25, 2026.
  • Earlier on March 25, the Belgian royals were welcomed at Oslo Airport and participated in a wreath-laying ceremony.
  • Crown Princess Mette-Marit made a surprise appearance at the palace for an official photo, despite previously saying she would not attend due to health issues.

The players

Queen Sonja

The Queen of Norway, who led the procession into the state banquet wearing a replica of Queen Maud's Pearl Tiara.

Queen Mathilde

The Queen of Belgium, who wore the Nine Provinces Tiara, a wedding gift to a previous Belgian royal.

King Philippe

The King of Belgium, who was visiting Norway on a state visit with his wife, Queen Mathilde.

King Harald V

The King of Norway, who welcomed the Belgian royals to Oslo.

Crown Princess Mette-Marit

The Crown Princess of Norway, who made a surprise appearance at the palace despite previously saying she would not attend due to health issues.

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What they’re saying

“I will always want her on my team when challenges arise.”

— Prince Haakon, Heir to Norway's throne

What’s next

The Belgian state visit will continue on March 26, with further talks and events scheduled between the two royal families.

The takeaway

The display of these historic tiaras underscores the enduring traditions and symbolism of royal fashion, as well as the deep ties between the Belgian and Norwegian monarchies. However, the visit also comes at a challenging time for the Norwegian royals, highlighting the complexities they navigate as public figures.