Thousands packed into Amsterdam today to see Willem-Alexander, Prince of Orange, become King after his mother, Queen Beatrix abdicated the throne, ending her 33-year reign.
According to The New York Times, Beatrix, 75, is the third straight Queen to abdicate the throne, but Willem-Alexander is the country’s first King in 123 years. Supporters on the monarchy came out in droves to see the ceremony at Dam Square, with most of them wearing the royal color, orange.
The BBC notes that Beatrix, who will now carry the title of princess, announced her decision in January. “I declare that I hereby step down from the monarchy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, that the monarchy from this moment on is transferred to my eldest son and heir Willem-Alexander, Prince of Orange, in accordance with the statutes and the constitution of the Kingdom of the Netherlands,” a statement she signed Tuesday read.
Willem-Alexander, 46, and his wife, Maxima, 41, signed the document just before waving to the crowd. “I am happy and grateful to introduce to you your new king, Willem-Alexander,” Beatrix said.
In the Netherlands, the monarchy has little political role and it is more of a ceremonial position. Still, there were some protesters who turned out at the event, but they are a rarity. The Times notes that opinion polls show that the public is overwhelmingly supportive of the royal family.
Today is Queen’s Day in the Netherlands and royalty from around the world - including Britain’s Prince Charles - was invited.