Belgium

King Philippe of Belgium condemns 'cruel and senseless' war in Ukraine in his annual Christmas Even broadcast

The King of the Belgians has used his annual Christmas Eve speech to condemn the ‘cruel and senseless’ war in Ukraine, as the conflict is set to carry on into 2023. In his address to the nation, His Majesty said that the people of Ukraine are fighting for their freedom and security, as did their ancestors in conflict of the past. He went on to thank the citizens of Belgium who…
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Belgium

The historic background of the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula in Brussels - setting for many royal weddings

In September, Princess Maria Laura of Belgium married William Isvy at the historic Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula in Brussels, with the whole Belgian Royal Family in attendance. It was just the latest royal wedding in Belgium to be held in the famous venue. The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula was built in the Brabantine Gothic style and is dedicated to both of the patron…
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Belgium

The monarch's role in Belgium

Like many modern-day monarchic countries, the role of the sovereign in Belgium is largely ceremonial today. The King does not have political powers in that he doesn’t get to decide which laws get discussed in Parliament nor which issues are put at the forefront of…
BelgiumEuropean Royals

Belgian princess supports climate activists attacking art

A Belgian princess has thrown her support behind oil protestors who throw materials on paintings in the name of activism, calling it “civil disobedience” in a new interview. Princess Esméralda, the half-aunt of King Philippe, spoke about last month’s Just No Oil protests that saw a Van Gogh painting smeared with soup and a wax figure of King Charles covered in chocolate cake. On the…
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BelgiumEuropean Royals

Queen Paola of Belgium experiences second fall in a year

Queen Paola of Belgium has been told to rest by doctors after having a fall. It’s the second time she has been treated following a fall in the past twelve months. It also means that she won’t be able to attend a special ceremony for her grandson, Prince Gabriel in the coming days. She’ll miss the opening ceremony for the new academic year at the Royal Military…
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