Concluded State Visit in classic Argentine style

The Estancia Villa María, situated in the countryside near Buenos Aires, is a Tudor-style mansion built in 1927. Today it is operated as a hotel and recreation site. The King and Queen attended a performance of gauchos, the skilled horse riders who hold a unique place in the traditions and hearts of Argentines.

The King and Queen and Jostein Leiro - Norway´s ambassador to Argentina, watch gauchos perform at Estancia Villa María. Photo: Heiko Junge / NTB scanpix

The King and Queen also enjoyed tango and Latin music while a traditional grilled meal – a genuine asado – was being prepared on giant open-fire grills.

New airline routes

Before travelling to the ranch, the King and Queen were present at an event at Ministro Pistarini International Airport, also known as Ezeiza International Airport. The airline Norwegian Air Shuttle is establishing services in Argentina, and has launched a number of domestic routes in addition to an international flight between Buenos Aires and London. The long-haul route will make it easier for Norwegians to travel to and from Argentina. 

The Queen tied together ribbons with the Norwegian and Argentinian colours as a symbol of the new connection between the two countries. Photo: Heiko Junge / NTB scanpix

As a symbol of this new connection between the two countries, the Queen tied together ribbons with the Norwegian and Argentinian colours.

Conclusion

The King and Queen will conclude their visit to Estancia Villa María and their State Visit to Argentina at the ranch this afternoon local time with a meeting with Norwegian and international members of the media. Afterwards, King Harald and Queen Sonja will partake of the Argentine grilled specialties before beginning the journey home to Norway.