Meet the Future Queens of Europe

Yet, the future of monarchy appears decidedly female, with a lineup of poised and accomplished young women destined for royal thrones across the continent.

Due to a 1953 change to Denmark’s constitution, Margrethe became the heir apparent to her father. She took over the throne in 1972, reigning for exactly 52 years until her departure on January 14, 2022.

The former Queen cited the fact that time had finally begun to catch up with her, and a growing number of physical ailments were likely going to impede her ability to carry out official duties in the future. She says that a substantial back surgery in February 2023 made her begin to reappraise her role as Queen, and decide it was time to move on. Let’s look at the numerous women in-line for thrones in European monarchies.

Further, her reign has been celebrated for its stability, which earned her the admiration of the Danish people and others around the globe. The ex-Queen is also very famous for her artistic prowess. She studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts and has created many impressive illustrations and paintings throughout the years.

Victoria is no stranger to the responsibilities that come with royalty. Engaging in a range of duties, she places a strong emphasis on environmental and sustainability issues, particularly those concerning the sea, fishing, and climate change. Beyond that, her involvement extends to foreign affairs and peacekeeping initiatives.

What’s more is that she’s an advocate for various social issues, actively supporting children’s rights, public health, and gender equality. Further, she’s a global ambassador for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on water and sanitation. Her commitment to sustainability and environmental protection aligns with her role as a supporter of the SDGs.

Princess Estelle follows closely in her mother’s footsteps as the second in line to the Swedish throne.

Raised in a multilingual environment, she is fluent in Dutch, French, German, and English. Currently pursuing studies in history and politics at Lincoln College, Oxford, Elisabeth combines her educational pursuits with military training.

Upon succeeding her father, King Philippe, she will become the first reigning Queen of the Belgians.

Her education has been characterized by a focus on multilingualism and a broad curriculum, reflecting her preparation for future leadership. Elisabeth’s involvement in charitable activities includes her support for causes related to mental health and well-being.

Born in 2003 to King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima, she became the first-in-line and Princess of Orange in 2013 when her grandmother Beatrix abdicated.

Amalia has also expressed a keen interest in social issues, supporting initiatives related to mental health and societal challenges. She’s spoken candidly in public about her own mental health struggles and her work with a therapist. She has also routinely supported LGBTQIA+ issues.

Her eventual ascension to the throne will continue the Dutch tradition of queens, following in the footsteps of her grandmother and ancestors.

Turning 18 in 2022, she celebrated with gala dinners and festivities alongside fellow heirs. In 2024, she is set to embark on a one-year stint with the Engineer Battalion in Brigade Nord. Currently second-in-line, Princess Ingrid Alexandra embodies the evolving face of Norwegian royalty.

She won the gold medal at the juniors Norwegian surfing championship at the age of 18. Further, in 2020 she was awarded the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of St. Olav. She began secondary school in August 2022 at Elvebakken Upper Secondary School.

As the heiress presumptive to the throne, Princess Leonor navigates her path through military training and major engagements. Her future role as the first Spanish queen since 1868 awaits her, making her a symbol of Spain’s evolving monarchy.

Leonor has been decorated with numerous awards in her young life, including the Gold Medal of the Congress of Deputies, the Gold Medal of the Senate, and the Gold Medal of the Community of Madrid.

As they prepare to ascend to their respective thrones, the world watches with anticipation, witnessing the evolution of monarchy into a more inclusive and diverse institution.

Isabella also provided crucial support to Christopher Columbus, who sought her sponsorship for his westward journey to find a new route to Asia, which resulted in the discovery of the Americas. She was also a patron of the arts and contributed to the Spanish Renaissance.

Mary I was nicknamed “Bloody Mary” for her brutal efforts to restore Roman Catholicism in England, which resulted in the execution of many Protestants. However, she has recently been recast in a more positive light, as she faced economic difficulties, a failed war, and internal revolts during her reign.

Sirimavo Bandaranaike rocked Sri Lanka as the first female Prime Minister in 1960. Now, the women’s march to the highest echelons of power is gaining momentum, especially over the past 15 years. As of the start of 2023, 15 countries proudly see women steering the ship, with Italy and Honduras celebrating their maiden female presidents in 2022.

Eleanor played a significant role in the political and cultural life of both France and England, as she was married to kings of both countries. She was the mother of renowned kings, including Richard the Lionheart and John Lackland. Eleanor actively participated in the administration of the Angevin Empire, and during Henry II’s absences, she acted as regent.

Elizabeth’s reign marked a period of relative stability and prosperity in England. She skillfully navigated through religious tensions, maintaining a moderate religious settlement that aimed to reconcile Catholics and Protestants.

Anne was a key figure in the English Reformation. Her marriage to Henry was accompanied by the establishment of the Church of England This move had profound implications for the religious landscape in England, breaking away from the authority of the Pope in Rome. She also gave birth to Elizabeth I, who presided over a Golden Age in English history.