Philippe of Belgium

King of the Belgians since 2013

Fame69.8
Momentum15.7
Historical Figures rank#89

Claim profile

Source-basedStable

Fame69.8
Momentum15.7
Historical Figures rank#89
Wikipedia104.5K

Born 1960 · age 66

Historical Figures

Verify ownership in 2 minutes. Keeps the profile accurate and discoverable.

Wikipedia
86 languages
Cross-language footprint
Age
66
Born 1960
Awards
35
recognised works

Summary

Updated 2026-06-08

He inherited a kingdom split three ways by language, then had to hold it together without any real power — the ceremonial job no Belgian asked for but can't quite do without.

Biography

About

Born 15 April 1960 to King Albert II and Queen Paola, Philippe became the eldest in line for a throne most Belgians regard with polite indifference. He married Mathilde d'Udekem d'Acoz in 1999; they had four children, the eldest being Princess Elisabeth. When his father abdicated for health reasons on 21 July 2013, Philippe stepped into the role: ribbon-cutter, mediator, symbolic glue for a country that can barely agree on a government. His daughter now waits first in line.

Voice

In their own words

Sourced, dated quotes from Philippe of Belgium

Philippe of Belgium

said21 Jul 2013

I swear to abide by the constitution and laws of the Belgian people, to maintain national independence and the integrity of the land.

— As quoted in "Divided Belgium has a new King Philippe", Telegraph (21 July 2013)

Philippe of Belgium

said21 Jul 2013

I begin my reign with the desire to put myself at the service of all Belgians. I will work for it in perfect agreement with the government and in accordance with the constitution.

— As quoted in "Divided Belgium has a new King Philippe", Telegraph (21 July 2013)

Philippe of Belgium

said21 Jul 2013