The Queen of the Netherlands
Queen Beatrix succeeded her mother as Queen of the Netherlands in 1980. From that date, Her Majesty formed part of the government. The Queen was married to Prince Claus. They had three sons: Prince Willem-Alexander, Prince Friso and Prince Constantijn. The eldest, Prince Willem-Alexander – the Prince of Orange – will succeed her.
-
Youth
Beatrix Wilhelmina Armgard, Princess of the Netherlands, Princess of Orange-Nassau and Princess of Lippe-Biesterfeld, was born on 31 January 1938 at Soestdijk Palace in Baarn.
read more -
Education
In Canada, Princess Beatrix attended nursery and primary school. On her return to the Netherlands, she continued her primary education at The Workshop (De Werkplaats), Kees Boeke’s progressive school in Bilthoven.
read more -
Marriage and family
The marriage ceremony of Princess Beatrix and the German diplomat Claus von Amsberg was conducted by the Mayor of Amsterdam, Gijsbert van Hall, on 10 March 1966.
read more -
Queen of the Netherlands
Under the Constitution of the Netherlands, Princess Beatrix was entitled to assume the royal prerogative at any time after her 18th birthday on 31 January 1956.
read more -
Official duties
The Queen represents the Netherlands both at home and abroad.
read more -
Leisure pursuits
The Queen enjoys sculpting, riding and sailing. Her favourite sailing boat is De Groene Draeck, her 18th birthday gift from the nation. She also enjoys playing tennis and skiing.
read more -
Print page (PDF)