Belgium's royal couple celebrates 25 years of marriage
- King Philippe and Queen Mathilde married on December 4, 1999, in Brussels.
- They have four children, with Elisabeth recently graduating from the University of Oxford.
- The royal couple is commemorating their anniversary privately and has received a €12.5 coin in recognition of their service to the nation.
Belgium witnessed a significant royal milestone as King Philippe and Queen Mathilde marked their 25th wedding anniversary on December 4, 2024. The couple tied the knot on December 4, 1999, in a grand ceremony that took place in Brussels, signaling the end of the millennium and representing a highly anticipated social event in the country. The civil proceedings were held at the Brussels Town Hall, while the religious ceremony took place at the remarkable Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula, emphasizing the royal family's deep ties to tradition and Catholicism in Belgium. Throughout their marriage, King Philippe and Queen Mathilde have become notable figures in Belgian society, particularly through their dedication to various social causes. Their children, including their eldest daughter, Elisabeth, who recently graduated from the University of Oxford, reflect the royal couple's commitment to both family and education. Their family has expanded over the years, welcoming four children: Elisabeth, Gabriel, Emmanuel, and Eléonore, each playing a role in the public life of the monarchy. To commemorate this significant anniversary, the Belgian government announced the issuance of a €12.5 coin featuring an image of the royal couple with the number '25' between them. Finance Minister Vincent Van Peteghem commented that this initiative serves to express gratitude for the couple’s unwavering dedication to Belgian society. The coin is seen not only as a form of recognition but also as a means to thank the royal couple for their roles in uniting and representing the country for over two decades. This announcement was met with applause, highlighting the importance of royal support within the nation’s cultural identity. As the couple reflects on their silver anniversary, they have chosen to celebrate this moment privately, marking a departure from public festivities associated with high-profile anniversaries. Their private observance suggests a desire for intimacy amidst their roles as public figures. Queen Mathilde has also been recognized for her work beyond royal duties, actively engaging with organizations like UNICEF and the King Baudouin Foundation. The celebration of their long-lasting marriage signifies not only their personal achievement but symbolizes the resilience and continuity of the Belgian monarchy in contemporary society.