Queen Mathilde of Belgium and the Queen’s distant cousin, King Philippe, look reflective as they pay their respects to Her late Majesty as she lies in state at Westminster Hall
The Queen’s distant cousin King Philippe of Belgium and his wife Queen Mathilde paid their respects to the late monarch at Westminster Hall on Sunday.
King Philippe and the Queen share several common ancestors, including Franz, the Duke of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld, who was the grandfather of Queen Victoria and the father of King Leopold I of the Belgians.
The Belgian royal couple appeared with sombre expressions as they visited the Queen’s coffin at her Lying-in-State.
Queen Mathilde was wearing a textured jade coat with a silver ribbon brooch paired with matching silver pearl earrings.
On Sunday King Philippe of Belgium and his wife Queen Mathilde appeared with sombre expressions as they visited the Queen’s coffin at her Lying-in-State
King Philippe is a distant cousin to Her Majesty and they share several common ancestors, including Franz, the Duke of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld, who was the grandfather of Queen Victoria and the father of King Leopold I of the Belgians
Meanwhile, King Philippe was wearing a dark navy suit with a crisp white shirt and a black tie.
They are also related via King Christian IX of Denmark, known as the ‘grandfather of Europe’ due to his far-reaching family tree.
The Queen is King Christian IX’s great-great-granddaughter. Philippe is his great-great-great-grandson.
King Philippe and Queen Mathilde will attend Her Majesty’s funeral service without their four children.
Their daughter Princess Elisabeth, who will one day ascend the throne, last week represented her parents when she signed a book of condolence to the Queen in Brussels.
The couple visited the Queen’s coffin on Sunday as she was lying in state at Westminster Hall, while members of the public filed past
Thousands have visited Her Majesty’s coffin in Westminster Hall , which is draped in the Royal Standard and topped with the orb and sceptre as well as the Imperial State Crown
People have lined up for hours at a time along the banks of the River Thames to get a chance to pay their respects to the late monarch. Pictured: Mourners standing in the queue to see the Queen’s coffin on Sunday evening
In a statement released shortly after the Queen’s death, the couple said: ‘[The Queen] was an extraordinary personality.
‘We will always keep fond memories of this great Lady who throughout her reign showed dignity, courage and dedication.
‘Each of our meetings will remain forever etched in our memories.
‘We extend our deepest condolences to the Royal Family and the British people.
‘Rest in peace, Your Majesty, with your beloved husband.’