Queen Beatrix celebrated her 72nd birthday privately yesterday, becoming the second oldest reigning monarch or stadholder in Dutch history. Beatrix became Queen in 1980 when her mother, Queen Juliana abdicated in her favour at the age of 70.

Public celebrations will take place in Zeeland on 30 April, the Queen’s official birthday and also the 30th anniversary of the commencement of her reign. The Queen’s Birthday last year was hit by tragedy when an assassination attempt was made on the Royal Family, killing innocent bystanders.
 

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