Felipe de Borbon is king of Spain

Felipe de Borbon officially became king of Spain at midnight Wednesday with the publication in the Official Bulletin of the State of the law formalising the abdication of his father, Juan Carlos.The 76-year-old Juan Carlos ended his 39 year old reign, who led Spain from dictatorship to democracy but was later hurt by scandals,steps down in a short, solemn ceremony in the late afternoon at Madrid's old Royal Palace before 150 guests.The 76-year-old departing monarch signed the measure into law on Wednesday. Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy added his signature and Juan Carlos rose and turned to embrace his son, who will reign as Felipe VI.Spain's King Felipe VI will have many more opportunities to test his powers of conciliation and persuasion, and not just with Catalans who want their region to secede from Spain.