Albert to take Monaco throne in July

Prince Albert II of Monaco is to acceed to the throne July 12, after the close of the mourning period for his father, long-time ruler Prince Rainier III, the palace announced yesterday, declaring the day a holiday.

Rainier died on April 6 at the age of 81. He had ruled since 1949. Albert, 47, immediately took over royal powers of this Riviera principality, but not the throne.