Belgium's King Albert II has formally abdicated in favor of his son Prince Philippe.
The 79-year-old Albert signed away his rights as monarch oat the royal palace in Brussels on July 21.
The 53-year-old Philippe was then sworn in later in the day, taking the oath at the parliament building.
He thus becomes the seventh monarch in the history of the 183-year-old country.
Albert, in his final address as king, said his country must remain a "source of inspiration" to Europe.
On July 20, he stressed his wish that Belgium -- split between the Flemish-speaking north and the French south -- remain united.
Albert has been on the throne for the past 20 years.
Belgium has a constitutional monarchy in which the king plays a largely ceremonial role.
The 79-year-old Albert signed away his rights as monarch oat the royal palace in Brussels on July 21.
The 53-year-old Philippe was then sworn in later in the day, taking the oath at the parliament building.
He thus becomes the seventh monarch in the history of the 183-year-old country.
Albert, in his final address as king, said his country must remain a "source of inspiration" to Europe.
On July 20, he stressed his wish that Belgium -- split between the Flemish-speaking north and the French south -- remain united.
Albert has been on the throne for the past 20 years.
Belgium has a constitutional monarchy in which the king plays a largely ceremonial role.