Visit to Oost-Vlaanderen

 30 September 2020

Queen Mathilde started her visit to the province at dairy company "Inex" at Sint-Lievens-Houtem: a family business investing in sustainable production. 

King Philippe was supposed to accompany his wife on the visit. However he remained in Brussels as a new government had been formed.

Next stop was the cross media production company "Fisheye" in Wetteren.

The visit concluded at the castle of Laarne, now a museum, where the Queen was given a tour of the premises. 

Flashback: Europa Donna Award

29 September 2004

As patron, Princess Mathilde handed out the Europa Donna Award in Brussels. 

Jewels: Anne Komorowska's Necklace

Mathilde's mother, countess Anna Komorowska, seems to have an important diamond belle époque necklace that she wears on big occasions such as weddings or noble galas.

The origins of this late 19th century/early 20th century piece are unclear, but it is very unlikely to be a family heirloom since the Komorowskis lost everything when they fled Poland in the early 1950s.

Flashback: Nutricia

 28 September 2001

Crown Prince Philippe & 8 month pregnant Princess Mathilde visited nutrition factory Nutricia in Bornem.

The factory offered the royal couple an appropriate basket full of useful products for new parents.

The director of the board, René Mannekens was also the founder of the Oost-Vlaanderen branch of the King Baudouin Foundation.

Family: Hélène & KickCancer

 27 September 2020

Mathilde's sister, Hélène d'Udekem and her family were at a show organized by KickCancer, where Angèle and GuiHome performed.

Hélène's middle child Alistair recovered from a brain tumor a few years ago and ever since Hélène has been involved with children's cancer charities and foundations.

She has quit her job as a lawyer and has started taking acting classes after performing as a hospital clown to cheer up young cancer patients.

Nowadays she's also a board member of KickCancer.

Private: Sablon Art Galleries

 26 September 2020

Mathilde & Philippe were spotted at the Brussels Grand Sablon today, visiting art galleries.