The British Royal Family aren’t the only ones with cause for celebration this week, as there’s been another regal arrival.
Warm wishes are due for Princess Maria Laura of Belgium and her husband William Isvy, who have just become proud parents to a baby boy named Albert on January 26 – three days before Princess Beatrice shared news of her own daughter Athena’s birth.
Royal enthusiasts were taken by surprise with baby Albert’s birth as the couple had kept their pregnancy under wraps until his arrival. The Belgian Palace broke the happy news on Wednesday, sharing an adorable photo of the newborn dressed in a cream jumper, fast asleep.
The announcement on social media read: “Princess Maria Laura and Mr. William Isvy are delighted to announce the birth of their son Albert, born on Sunday 26 January in Brussels. Albert weighs 3.5 kg and is doing well, just like his mother. The families of the young parents share in their happiness.”
Named after his great-grandfather, King Albert II of Belgium, who abdicated in 2013, little Albert has made history as the first Belgian Royal born without a title, despite being 11th in line for the throne.
Princess Maria Laura, niece of King Philippe and second child of Princess Astrid of Belgium, has been married to her British investment banker husband William since September 10 2022. The couple exchanged vows in a civil ceremony in Brussels, followed by a religious celebration at the Cathedral of Saint Michael and Saint Gudula the next day , reports the Mirror.
Maria Laura was brought up away from the royal limelight in Bazel, Switzerland, until she was five due to her father’s international banking career. Alongside her four siblings – Prince Amedeo, Prince Joachim, Princess Luisa Maria and Princess Laetitia Maria – she was raised without royal duties and is seldom seen at public events.
Maria Laura pursued sinology and international relations in Paris, before earning a Master’s Degree in international relations and diplomacy at SOAS, University of London.
Following the announcement from Buckingham Palace about the latest addition to the British Royal Family, a statement was released on Wednesday confirming: “Her Royal Highness Princess Beatrice and Mr Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi are delighted to announce the safe arrival of their daughter, Athena Elizabeth Rose Mapelli Mozzi, born on Wednesday, 22nd January, at 12.57pm, at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London. The baby was born weighing four pounds and five ounces. Their Majesties The King and Queen and other members of the Royal family have all been informed and are delighted with the news.”
Princess Beatrice and Edoardo have been married since 2020 and are already parents to three year old Sienna Elizabeth Mapelli Mozzi. Edoardo also has an eight year old son, Wolfie, from a previous relationship.
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