Features

First big change for a new ruler announced as countdown to abdication begins in Luxembourg

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1st July 2025
The next Grand Duke of Luxembourg has revealed the monogram that will be used throughout his reign.Prince Guillaume will become ruler of the tiny country in October when his father, Grand Duke Henri, abdicates in his favour.With just three months to go until the big day, the monogram that will be the official symbol of the new Grand Duke. It will be used on a wide range of items including…
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Features

The tiara that is said to have given a princess such a bad headache she had to leave a state event

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27th June 2025
It’s made of diamonds and pearls and is meant to represent a sunburst. But this tiara was such a surprise to its first wearer that she was reported to need a lie down after wearing it for the first time.The tiara in question is a pearl and diamond diadem belonging to the Japanese Imperial family. Empress Masako has several stunning tiaras that she can wear for formal events. However, she…
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Features

The dramatic final days of King George IV

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24th June 2025
King George IV died on 26 June 1830, bringing to an end a glittering royal story that had shocked as much as it had intrigued.Although George defined a period that remains perpetually popular, the Regency era, as king he was unpopular and he spent the last years of his life in poor health. The eldest son of King George III and Queen Charlotte, while Prince Regent, George became the…
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Features

The King who clung on to make a queen

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22nd June 2025
King William IV, known as the Sailor King, inherited the throne when his elder brother, George IV, died in 1830 with no surviving heirs. Although William had no legitimate children of his own, he still did everything he could to help the young woman he wanted to take the throne do it in her own way. For William IV’s heir was Princess Victoria of Kent and there was a big barrier between her…
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