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Luxembourg

Grand Ducal Family cancels events, state visit to mourn Grand Duke Jean

The Grand Ducal Family has cancelled their events after the death of their beloved patriarch, Grand Duke Jean on 23 April after a battle with a pulmonary infection.

This morning, the Grand Ducal Court announced that the planned state visit from Cabo Verde’s President Jorge Carlos Fonseca had been postponed. It was due to last from 7 to 9 May, and the rescheduled date has not yet been announced.

Grand Duke Henri has also cancelled all of his events for tomorrow.

Copyright: Cour grand-ducale / Jochen Herling

It is not believed any member of the family will undertake engagements until the funeral on 4 May. There are currently no engagements listed on the Grand Ducal Family’s calendar for the foreseeable future.

Luxembourg is currently in a national state of mourning until 4 May. All flags in the country have been lowered to half staff in memory of late Grand Duke Jean.

There will also be no school of any kind on 4 May, the Ministry of Education has said.

The state funeral for Grand Duke Jean will take place on Saturday, 4 May at the Cathedral of Luxembourg.

Grand Duke Jean died shortly after midnight on 23 April surrounded by his family. He had been suffering from a pulmonary infection. He was 98.

Grand Duke Henri announced the death of his father at 6.00 am on Tuesday in a statement released by the Court:

“It is with great sadness that I inform you of the death of my beloved father, His Royal Highness Grand Duke Jean, who has passed away in peace, surrounded by the affection of his family.”

His death has led to widespread mourning across the tiny country of Luxembourg. He was a beloved figure in the duchy and a World War II veteran. A humble man, he was known for his warmth and generosity.

About author

Brittani is from Tennessee, USA. She is a political scientist and historian after graduating with a degree in the topics from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in December 2014. She also holds a master's degree from Northeastern University. She enjoys reading and researching all things regarding the royals of the world. She's been researching, reading, and writing on royalty for over a decade. She became Europe Editor in October 2016, and then Deputy Editor in January 2019, and has been featured on several podcasts, radio shows, news broadcasts and websites including Global News Canada, ABC News Australia, WION India and BBC World News.