The Netherlands' Willem-Alexander has become Europe's youngest monarch and his country's first king in 120 years after his mother Beatrix abdicated.
An estimated 25,000 well-wishers cheered outside the Royal Palace in Amsterdam as the abdication and automatic succession were broadcast live.
The crowds had gathered in Dam Square from early in the day to see the new king and his Argentine-born wife, Queen Maxima, as they stepped out onto the balcony of the Royal Palace.
Beatrix, 75, shed a tear as she presented her son.
Wearing a sober purple dress, she signed the abdication document in front of Willem-Alexander, Maxima and the Dutch cabinet.
"Today, I make way for a new generation," said Beatrix, who now takes the title of princess.
"Some moments ago I abdicated from the throne. I am happy and thankful to present to you your new king."
Willem-Alexander, a 46-year-old water management specialist, is expected to bring a less formal touch to the monarchy together with Maxima, a popular former investment banker.
April 30, or Queen's Day, is always a day for partying in the Netherlands.
Many people took Monday off work and started celebrating in earnest from Monday evening with street bands and music.
Beatrix chose to retire after 33 years in the role, following in the tradition of her mother and grandmother.
Source: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-04-30/dutch-king-willem-alexander-succeeds-mother-beatrix/4661218
An estimated 25,000 well-wishers cheered outside the Royal Palace in Amsterdam as the abdication and automatic succession were broadcast live.
The crowds had gathered in Dam Square from early in the day to see the new king and his Argentine-born wife, Queen Maxima, as they stepped out onto the balcony of the Royal Palace.
Beatrix, 75, shed a tear as she presented her son.
Wearing a sober purple dress, she signed the abdication document in front of Willem-Alexander, Maxima and the Dutch cabinet.
"Today, I make way for a new generation," said Beatrix, who now takes the title of princess.
"Some moments ago I abdicated from the throne. I am happy and thankful to present to you your new king."
Willem-Alexander, a 46-year-old water management specialist, is expected to bring a less formal touch to the monarchy together with Maxima, a popular former investment banker.
April 30, or Queen's Day, is always a day for partying in the Netherlands.
Many people took Monday off work and started celebrating in earnest from Monday evening with street bands and music.
Beatrix chose to retire after 33 years in the role, following in the tradition of her mother and grandmother.
Source: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-04-30/dutch-king-willem-alexander-succeeds-mother-beatrix/4661218
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