The queen has left the building. The Netherlands’ Queen Beatrix abdicated the throne on Tuesday, handing it over to her son, Willem-Alexander. He will be the country’s first king since 1890. Beatrix, 75, who has been on the throne for 33 years, announced her plans to step down in January, saying it was time for a “new generation” to take over. About a million people are expected to travel to Amsterdam for the occasion, and street parties will take place throughout the country. The royal family will take part in a water festival on Tuesday night.
