Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg abdicates in historic ceremony at Grand Ducal Palace

Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg has abdicated his throne in an historic ceremony at the royal palace.

The Grand Duke, whose reign began almost exactly 25 years earlier, signed an instrument of abdication which brought to an end his rule.

He was immediately succeeded by his eldest son, Guilluame, who is now the Grand Duke of Luxembourg.

At Henri’s side was his wife of 44 years, Grand Duchess Maria Teresa, who appeared emotional as her husband’s tenure ended and her son ascended the Grand Ducal throne.

With the new Grand Duke was his wife, Stephanie, who became the Grand Duchess of Luxembourg as her father in law signed the abdication papers.

The new heir to the throne, five year old Prince Charles, wasn’t present. He was with his younger brother, two year old Prince Francois.

Also watching were Grand Duke Henri’s four other children. His second son, Prince Felix, was accompanied by his wife, Princess Claire, while Henri and Maria Teresa’s only daughter, Princess Alexandra, was with her husband, Nicolas Bagory. The other brothers of the new Grand Duke, Prince Louis and Prince Sebastien, were also in attendance at the historic ceremony in the Grand Ducal Palace.

The new reign began beneath the gaze of other royalty. King Philippe of the Belgians, a cousin of Grand Duke Henri, was there with his wife, Queen Mathilde, and the heir to the throne of Belgium, Princess Elisabeth.

The King and Queen of the Netherlands, Willem-Alexander and Maxima, also attended along with their eldest daughter, Princess Amalia, first in line to the Dutch throne.

After signing the document, Henri stood and smiled at his son. The emotional moment signalled the change of power as the throne passed to a new holder.