Change of throne in the Grand Duchy: Guillaume begins a new era!

Change of throne in the Grand Duchy: Guillaume begins a new era!

Today, October 4, 2025, Luxembourg experienced a memorable change of throne, which attracted fans from Cologne and Brussels and generated a lot of interest. While Germany celebrated German Unity Day, a new era was heralded in Luxembourg: Grand Duke Henri stepped down after 25 years in office, and his eldest son Guillaume ceremoniously took the oath to the constitution to take over the reins as the new Grand Duke. The ceremony began at 11 a.m. in the Chamber of Deputies and caused great enthusiasm among the spectators.

Henri's abdication ceremony, which took place in the palace, was particularly emotional. Thousands of people gathered both in front of the Grand Ducal Palace and on Place Guillaume II (Knuedler) to celebrate this historic moment together. Cät and Claudia from Cologne and Ide and Bart from Brussels set out despite the rain and wind to experience the celebrations up close. Her trip was motivated by the announcement of friend Ginette's change to the throne in May, showing a strong sign of solidarity between the neighboring countries.

Luxembourg's new Grand Duke

In his speech from the throne, Guillaume, 44 years old and born on November 11, 1981, expressed the desire to build bridges between generations and between tradition and innovation. He highlighted Luxembourg's multicultural and multinational population and expressly thanked the cross-border workers who contribute to the country's prosperity and diversity. “Luxembourg is a small country with a big soul,” Claudia remarked, expressing the feeling of many who miss the monarchy in Germany. Ide added that the special Belgian-Luxembourg friendship represents an important bond between the nations.

Like his wife Stéphanie, who is known for her calm, collected manner and as a “real boss lady”, Guillaume is perceived as open, modern and progressive - someone who could definitely be a friend. The celebrations in the heart of Luxembourg included not only the appearance of the grand ducal family on the balcony of the palace, but also a “bath in the crowd” where Guillaume and Stéphanie waved to the people and created a great atmosphere.

A celebration for the monarchy

The festive program also included a gala dinner in the palace, to which high-ranking guests from various royal families and presidents of Germany and France were invited. Prominent people present, including Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and President Emmanuel Macron, underline the international interest in this historic event. The celebrations continue on the second day with visits to places such as Wiltz, Dudelange, Steinfort and Luxembourg City, where folk festivals take place.

Amid all the ostentation and celebration, the new 2023 constitution ensures that the monarchy in Luxembourg has representative functions, but the Grand Duke's power is significantly limited. It remains to be seen how Guillaume will deal with these constitutional changes, as he is now the seventh sovereign of the House of Luxembourg-Nassau and the first to take office at a time when the role of the monarchy has fundamentally diminished.

In conclusion, the change of throne in Luxembourg that took place today is more than just a formal act. It stands as a symbol of the combination of tradition and innovation in a country that is proud of its unique history in the world of monarchies. The enthusiasm of fans from Cologne and Brussels shows that the Grand Duke and his family play an important role in people's hearts and that their celebrations are seen as important for the future of the Grand Duchy.