Laeken Photocall for Belgian Royals

Adorable Princess Eléonore, granddaughter of King Albert II and Queen Paola, made another appearance yesterday for a photo session in the grounds of the Castle of Laeken with her three siblings, parents, cousins and grandparents. The newest addition was christened at the Castle of Ciergnon in Houyet last week.Photos: REUTERS, Associated Press/Virginia Mayo

Estonia Welcomes Belgian Monarch on Historical First Visit

Seldom does a monarch get the opportunity to be a tourist whilst on a state visit, but it was not a problem for King Albert II; he managed to snap some photos for his personal album as he toured the Estonian Open Air Musem at Rocca al Mare this week. Invited by Estonian President Toomas Hendrik Ilves, he and his wife, Queen Paola embarked on the first state visit to Estonia by a Belgian monarch on June 10th. Besides enjoying the hospitality of the obligatory state banquet and troop review, the royal couple visited the KUMU Art Museum and Tallinn’s Old Town. Accompanied by the wife of President Ilves, Evelin, the queen toured the Vodja School in Roosna-Alliku Rural Municipality. The historical visit wrapped up on June 12th.

For more information on the Estonian Open Air Museum, visit the official website.

For more information on the KUMU Art Museum, visit the official website.Photos: REUTERS

Princess Mathilde's Baby Due in the Spring 2008

The Belgian Monarchy has issued the news that Princess Mathilde is expecting her fourth child in the spring 2008. Prince Philippe and Princess Mathilde have three children, Elisabeth, Gabriel and Emmanuel. Elisabeth is five years old and heir to the throne after her father. Gabriel is four years old and Emmanuel, the youngest, just turned two years old today.

In the announcement, King Albert, Queen Paola, the Royal Family and the family of Princess Mathilde expressed their happiness for the royal couple.