The monarchy in the heart of Europe is preparing for a generational change: on Friday, Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg will step down after 25 years on the throne, in favor of his eldest son, Prince Guillaume.
Henri, along with his Cuban-born wife, Grand Duchess Maria Teresa, fulfilled a largely ceremonial role as Grand Duke while the government managed the nation, steering it through challenges such as the 2008 financial crisis, which was the strongest shock to Luxembourg’s economy since the 1970s.
The tall and reserved 70-year-old Henri was educated in France, Switzerland, and at the Sandhurst military academy in Berkshire.
His 43-year-old son, Guillaume, followed a similar path, studying in London, Switzerland, France, and Sandhurst, before working at Belgian, German, and Spanish firms.
