Arrivederla Regina Paola

Today, King Albert II of the Belgians abdicated and his son took his oath as King Philippe. This means that Italy's Queen Paola is no longer Queen consort (making way for Queen Mathilde) but is now 'Queen Mother'. Aside from King Albert II marrying an Italian lady, the royal houses of Belgium and Savoy have been related since the marriage of King Umberto II and Queen Marie Jose. Here is a short look back at the lovely former Queen of the Belgians, Italy can be proud of her: