The Life and Legacy of Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit

Early Life and Family

Mette-Marit Tjessem Høiby was born on August 19, 1973, in Kristiansand, Norway. Her parents were Sven Olaf Bjarte Høiby, a journalist, and Marit Tjessem, a bank clerk.

Mette-Marit's childhood was marked by her parents' divorce when she was just two years old. She spent her early years in Kristiansand with her mother and stepfather, Kjell Arne Rottem, before moving to Oslo with her father at the age of nine.

Education and Career

Mette-Marit attended Oslo Cathedral School and later studied at Bjørknes College, where she majored in marketing.

Before meeting Crown Prince Haakon, Mette-Marit worked as a waitress and a bartender. She also briefly pursued a career in modeling.

Meeting Crown Prince Haakon

Mette-Marit met Crown Prince Haakon in 1999 at the Quart Festival in Kristiansand. The couple quickly fell in love and announced their engagement in December 2000.

Their relationship was met with some controversy due to Mette-Marit's past, which included a son from a previous relationship.

Wedding and Royal Life

Mette-Marit and Crown Prince Haakon were married on August 25, 2001, in Oslo Cathedral. The wedding was a major event in Norway and was attended by royalty from around the world.

As Crown Princess, Mette-Marit has undertaken a variety of royal duties. She represents Norway at official events both at home and abroad, and has a particular interest in social welfare and environmental issues.

Personal Life and Family

Mette-Marit and Crown Prince Haakon have three children: Princess Ingrid Alexandra (born 2004), Prince Sverre Magnus (born 2005), and Princess Louise (born 2012).

The Crown Princess is a patron of several charities and organizations, including the Norwegian Red Cross and the World Health Organization's Mental Health Advocacy.

Legacy

Mette-Marit's impact on the Norwegian monarchy has been significant. She has helped to modernize the institution and make it more relatable to the public.

The Crown Princess is known for her warm and outgoing personality, and is widely respected for her commitment to her family and her country.