Belgium will get a glamorous new King and Queen on July 21 after the country’s current monarch Albert II announced his abdication yesterday.
The 79-year-old King said health reasons had led him to step aside for his eldest son Prince Philippe, who will ascend to the throne in 15 days.
Philippe and his wife Princess Mathilde – and their four young children – will be a breath of fresh air in the royal palace, giving the entire monarchy a much-needed style injection.
These pictures chart the couple’s journey from marriage to the throne.
The couple with their kids Elisabeth, Gabriel, Emmanuel and Eleonore.
Philippe and Mathilde at the coronation of Holland’s new King Willem-Alexander in April.
Philippe and Mathilde at a gala to celebrate Holland’s Queen Beatrix’s abdication.
Red carpet style: Philippe and Mathilde in September 2012.
Philippe and Mathilde in November 2012.
The royal family in September 2012.
Philippe and Mathilde at Luxembourg’s royal wedding October 2012.
Mathilde in May 2013.
Philippe and Mathilde in June 2012.
Mathilde looking glam in March 2012.
Philippe and Mathilde with their kids in 2011.
Philippe and Mathilde at the Swedish royal wedding June 2010.
Philippe and Mathilde in India in 2010.
Belgium’s outgoing King Albert II and his wife Queen Paola.
Philippe and Mathilde at William and Kate’s wedding in 2011.
Philippe, Mathilde and their four children in 2009.
Philippe and Mathilde in 2007.
The couple on the birth of their third child Prince Emmanuel in 2005.
Prince Gabriel and Prince Emmanuel in 2007.
The royal family in July 2007.
The couple on their wedding day in 1999.
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