Hesse congratulates: New Grand Duke Guillaume begins his reign!

Hesse congratulates: New Grand Duke Guillaume begins his reign!

On October 3, 2025, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg took an important step in its history with the accession to the throne of the new Grand Duke Guillaume. Hesse and Luxembourg have a long, traditional history that goes back to the time of the House of Nassau. The Hessian Prime Minister Rhein stated this in his congratulatory letter, in which he wished Guillaume a lot of strength, success and God's blessing for his new task. It is a change that is also of great importance for the cultural, economic and political relations between the two countries.

In taking over the crown, Guillaume succeeds his father Henri, who is saying goodbye to the Grand Duchy after 25 years. Hesse and Luxembourg maintain close relationships characterized by mutual respect and cooperation. “I look forward to deepening our cooperation with Luxembourg,” continued Rhein. The new Grand Duke is the sixth regent of the line of the House of Nassau-Weilburg, which has guided the fate of Luxembourg since 1890.

The history of the House of Nassau

But how did this close connection come about? The House of Nassau has a history spanning over 800 years, dating back to the 11th century. The first lords of Laurenburg and Nassau were divided into two lines over the centuries, the Walramian and the Ottonian lines. The latter developed primarily in the Netherlands and was instrumental in the leadership during the Dutch uprising. In fact, in its longer phase, the House of Nassau is considered one of the most important dynasties in the German-speaking world and beyond.

In the context of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, it should be mentioned that the rule was under the Dutch kings between 1815 and 1839. After the death of King William III. Hennig de Nassau took control of Luxembourg in accordance with the Nassau family pact. This anchored the House of Nassau-Wiesbaden deeply in Luxembourgish history.

A look into the future

With Guillaume at the helm, Luxembourg's long-standing tradition of stability and prosperity is expected to continue. The new Grand Duke already has clear goals in mind and will continue to seek close cooperation with neighboring countries, not least with Hesse. The exchange can be further intensified in the areas of culture, economics and politics so that citizens of both countries can benefit from it.

The close historical connection between Hesse and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is reflected not only in the past, but also in the future prospects of both regions. The connection through the House of Nassau guarantees that the inspiration that arises from this relationship remains noticeable on both small and large scales.

It remains exciting to see how Grand Duke Guillaume will continue the tradition that runs like a red thread through Luxembourg's history, while at the same time setting new trends and leading the country into the future. There are many who are looking forward to a close and fruitful collaboration that will allow the traditions of the House of Nassau to shine in a new light.