In pictures: The abdication ceremony in Holland

New Netherlands king takes over

Willem-Alexander becomes king of the Netherlands as his mother Beatrix abdicates.

Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands prepares to sign an act of abdication. Credit: Reuters

Dutch Crown Prince Willem-Alexander holds the hand of his mother Queen Beatrix during an abdication ceremony. Credit: Reuters

Queen Beatrix passes the act of abdication to her son Crown Prince Willem-Alexander, sitting next to his wife Crown Princess Maxima. Credit: Reuters

Last updated Tue 30 Apr 2013

Thousands in streets to celebrate new King of Holland

Colourful celebrations have taken over the streets of Amsterdam as Queen Beatrix abdicated after 33 years.
The monarchies of Europe

As Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands ends her 33-year reign and abdicates in favour of her son a look at the monarchies of Europe.