Prince Charles of Luxembourg stole the spotlight on his dad's big day. The Prince was on hand as his father Prince Guillaume became the Grand Duke of Luxembourg on Friday, Oct. 3. At times, the noise outside seemed a bit overwhelming for Charles, who was spotted adorably covering his ears while walking with his parents and also during the family’s appearance on the balcony of the Grand Ducal Palace.
© Mischa Schoemaker/DPPACharles is Grand Duke Guillaume and Grand Duchess Stéphanie's eldest child. He was born on May 10, 2020 at the Maternité Grande-Duchesse Charlotte in Luxembourg. Upon his father's accession, Charles, 5, became the youngest heir to a throne in Europe.
© Mischa Schoemaker/DPPAThe Grand Ducal Court of Luxembourg's website notes that "once the heir presumptive reaches the age of 18, they receive the title ‘Hereditary Grand Duke of Luxembourg.'" Charles' dad, Guillaume, held the title of Hereditary Grand Duke before ascending the throne.
Grand Duke Henri announced in his 2024 Christmas speech that he would be abdicating in favor of his eldest child. "When I look back today, after almost 25 years, I do so with deep gratitude and humility. It has been a period during which Luxembourg has made much progress, and I am pleased to have been able to be part of that journey with you, together with the Grand Duchess," he said in his remarks. "It has been a quarter of a century of challenges, opportunities and hopes for a better future: of technological and economic progress, of social change, but also of many conflicts. All were moments that have made us reflect and brought us closer together as a nation. And we have remained united to make Luxembourg even more inviting and sustainable. We have always taken targeted measures to ensure that none of us are left behind or excluded. The strength, and indeed the future, of our society lies in its ability to show solidarity."
© Mischa Schoemaker/DPPAHenri noted in his speech that "for most" of his generation, "the time has now come to retire." He said, " It's a natural process that has its raison d'être. This also applies to me. On our last National Day, I announced the appointment of Prince Guillaume as Lieutenant-Représentant. Today, the Grand Duchess and I are pleased to share with you that Prince Guillaume and Princess Stéphanie will succeed us on October the 3rd, 2025. I know that they will do their utmost to contribute to the well-being of our country."
Guillaume took the oath of office following his father’s abdication on Oct. 3. The new Grand Duke of Luxembourg has stated that he sees his role "as Head of State as that of a unifying figure for all who consider Luxembourg their home." "I intend to defend our independence, preserve our traditions and wisely embrace the opportunities that will shape our future," Guillaume said. "Guided by the values of integrity, compassion and service, I am committed to strengthening social cohesion, safeguarding our democratic stability and supporting a sustainable, innovative and prosperous economy. Together with the citizens of Luxembourg, we will cross the bridge to a future that honours our past while shaping a vibrant and inclusive tomorrow."
