A special message from Princess Margriet of the Netherlands

If you’ve ever wondered why tulips are so important to our city, the answer involves a world war, a royal family and The Ottawa Hospital’s Civic Campus. In this special video message, Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands shares why the tulip is a special symbol of the endearing friendship between her country and Canada.

[@ahmadghidan2361]

Thank you much

[@SwintyThrives]

Your Royal Highness, Thank you for your lovely message. I am so very proud that the Canadian government offered your family safe haven during the Second World War. I too was born during the war, but in London, and am the daughter of a Canadian soldier. I am also proud of the Canadian soldiers who assisted with the liberation of the Netherlands. And grateful for the many warm responses I received from the Dutch people when I travelled there as a young Canadian woman. However, I am appalled that a massive parking garage and hospital will now overshadow the magnificent tulip beds you and your people have gifted us over so many decades. Especially since, after intensive study, a different and far more suitable location was recommended.