August Annotations

10 Little-Known Palaces and Homes Where Royalty Play

How would you hide from the paparazzi, your scathing skeptics or needy subjects if you were a member of royalty? Would you own several homes far, far away from your domain? Or, would you show up unexpectedly with bodyguards and staff to a high-priced resort tucked neatly away in the Caribbean? It appears that some royalty maintain traditions where they show up at a summer home on schedule, a habit that tends to keep news about their travels low-key. Lately, however, it seems that some royalty have altered those well-known habits based upon political agendas or to simply break with generations-old customs. Why settle for the musty family summer palace when you can visit a new high-priced resort geared to royalty?

This ability to venture beyond tradition has led to another new trick for royalty and celebrities alike - if you can travel with staff, why not stay in the home of another multi-millionaire? This possibility has led some royals to stay in celebrity homes, palaces that belong to other royal families or in the homes of corporate CEOs who unabashedly rent their abodes for tens of thousands of dollars per week.

We discovered all the above choices when we picked a handful of royals to follow for their vacations and getaways. While the sites listed below are numbered and listed in alphabetical order, these organizational techniques do not indicate that we favor one getaway over another or that they are listed in order of value.

1. Château de Caïx: Queen Margrethe of Denmark is a real homebody. Although she visits other heads of state for political reasons, her heart stays with her homeland as she officially resides at Amalienborg Palace in Copenhagen (where the Queen was born), spends summer at Marselisborg Castle near Århus, and uses Fredensborg Castle in North Zealand during the spring and fall. But, Queen Margrethe and her husband, Prince Henrik, also acquired a more private abode in 1974 when they purchased the Château de Caïx in Cahors, southern France. This latter home is the Queen’s true playground, where she can devote herself to her painting, graphic work and other artistic pursuits. Her works have been displayed at several exhibitions since 1988. This home also is a hideaway for her husband and his French relatives when he wants to escape Danish royal life, as this home originally belonged to his wine-producing family. Henrik was born to French parents, and his native tongue also is French.
2. Marivent Palace (Palma de Mallorca): This is the traditional summer home for Spanish King Juan Carlos and his royal family. While kings usually grant aging castles and palaces to municipalities, this building was granted by the city to the king when he was a prince. King Carlos and his son, both ardent sailors, participate in the Yacht Regattas in August and the Royal Yacht is moored in Portals Nous. Palma is the major city and port on the island of Mallorca and capital city of the autonomous community of the Spanish Balearic Islands in Europe. In 2007, however, tradition was broken when Juan Carlos’ daughters, princesses Cristina and Elena, arrived in Budva, Montenegro to stay at the Iberostar Bellevue in August. Also known as the Budva Riviera, this coastal town is a tourist attraction and one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic sea coast in southeastern Europe. The hotel is located along the spectacular Plaza Bellevue beach and is surrounded by unspoilt, green countryside. Located just a few miles from the center of Budva, a jet-set summer resort, this hotel has been historically marked as a destination for European royal families. Among the prestigious hotels located here is the “Milocer,” former residence of royal family Karadordevic of Serbia.
3. Michael Appe home: Few individuals would know about this home or its location in the Town of Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, unless they were born in the region, if they have too much money and a reason to hide away, or if they read the news about French President Sarkozy’s stay here in summer 2007. When French President and ex officio Co-Prince of Andorra, Nicolas Paul Stéphane Sarközy de Nagy-Bocsa (also simply known as Nicolas Sarkozy), visited this lakeside a town of around 6,000 residents 85 miles north of Boston last year, many learned that this area bills itself as the oldest summer resort in the U.S. Wolfeboro is a popular tourist destination because of its proximity to Lake Winnipesaukee. For residents, Wolfeboro represents a town with the seventh highest per capita income and the lowest crime rate in the country, the highest SAT scores for its students and - as a further benefit - a location in one of the lowest taxed states in the country. Like many current royalty, Sarkozy holed up in another multimillionaire’s home for his vacation, one that belongs to former Microsoft executive Michael Appe. Appe rents his 13,000-square-foot home for $30,000 per week, a fact that didn’t escape the notice of Sarkozy’s French critics. That amount equals one-third of the French president’s annual salary, another fact that might lead observers to understand that Sarkozy may not need his salary to stay afloat on Lake Winnipesaukee. Wolfeboro has a long history of hosting the rich and famous, including Monaco’s Prince Rainier and Princess Grace, author Kurt Vonnegut and actress Drew Barrymore.
4. Mustique: The Island of Mustique was made private when it was leased for 99 years from the British Commonwealth by Scotsman Colin Tennant aka Lord Glennconner in 1958. He turned the island into a hideway for British royals and celebrities. He lost the island in the 1970s, but the island remained private thanks to the operation and ownership of the Mustique Company, an organization comprised of shareholders and villa owners who are dedicated to protecting this island’s natural beauty, tranquility and privacy. Comprised of 1,400 acres, Mustique is part of the Grenadines in the West Indies on the edge of the Caribbean. Prince William and his long-time girlfriend Kate Middleton escaped to this resort for a romantic getaway in 2006, and they stayed in a villa owned by John Robinson (a close friend of Kate’s parents), the multimillionaire founder of the Jigsaw fashion chain (where Kate once worked). A more recent trip by Prince William and Kate put them in the £1,785-per-night Villa Alumbrera, one of the island’s most opulent and secluded mansions, for a week. This villa is owned by the widow of Swedish mining tycoon Adolf Lundin. Other royalty who have frequented this island include Princess Margaret and Viscout David Linley. Prices range from $5,000 per week for a two-bedroom villa to $27,000 per week for a nine-bedroom villa, depending upon season. Single rooms range from $500 to $1,400 per night. The most popular ‘hangout’ on the island is Basil’s Bar, which also is home to the Mustique Blues Festival. Proceeds from the sale of the festival’s CDs and t-shirts fund the Basil Charles’ Education Fund, an organization that provides education for children who reside in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
5. Nagarjung Palace: One way to use a royal summer home is to house a former king within its walls. Although King Gyanendra of Nepal won’t be playing around here, at least he has a roof over his head. And, he can dream about all the former summers he spent at Nagarjung Palace. King Gyanendra of Nepal was dethroned in May 2008 by this country’s new Constitutuent Assembly, which abolished the Asian monarchy and declared Nepal a republic. Officials met with Gyanendra in June, and the former King asked the new government to find alternative accommodation as his former home was occupied by his son and his family. The Cabinet decided to allow Gyanendra to move to Nagarjung Palace, which is situated on a forested hill on the edge of Katnamdu. Gyanendra used Nagarjung palace as his summer home, as it is surrounded by walls and has remained off-limits to the public. The palace has been nationalized by the new government along with most of the royal assets. It’s unknown how long Gyanendra will remain at the summer palace, or if the public will be able to view the inside of this vacation home in the near future. The monarchy’s end was the culmination of a two-year peace process that saw communist insurgents give up their armed struggle, join mainstream politics and win the most seats in April elections.
6. Necker Island: Before Sir Richard Branson became a “Sir,” he visited the British Virgin Islands to investigate real estate for his rock stars signed to his then new Virgin Label. Necker Island was the final island on his list, and he made such a lowball bid on the £3 million price tag for this 74-acre piece of real estate that he was evicted from the island. But, the owner, Lord Cobham, eventually settled for £180,000. Within three years and for $10 million, Branson built a 10-bedroom Balinese-style villa that crowns a hill above the beach. Each of the ten bedrooms contains open walls that provide a 360-degree view and cooling winds from any direction within the house. Built from local stone and Brazilian hardwoods, the retreat is decorated with antiques, art and bamboo furniture from Bali. With accommodations for up to 28 people, the entire resort rents for $47,000 per day. Famous figures who have stayed at Branson’s resort include the late Princess Diana, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, Janet Jackson, Harrison Ford, Eddie Murphy and Oprah Winfrey. If you want to visit the island you can find a way to join a legitimate scientific expedition to study a rare species of gecko, which has full and unfettered access to the island. You can reach Necker via San Juan (Puerto Rico), St Thomas, Antigua or Barbados followed by a connecting flight to Beef Island, Tortola. From Beef Island there’s a 30-minute transfer via the Necker Island private launch. Necker Island currently is one of eight getaways now owned by Virgin Limited Edition
7. Paleis Het Oude Loo: Het Oude Loo is not a palace as much as a “Lust-hof,” or retreat, located near Apeldoorn, Netherlands in Europe. Now owned by the state, the former royal residence was built starting in 1684 for Stadtholder William III and his consort, Mary II of England. For over three hundred years, Het Loo was the summer residence of the House of Orange-Nassau, which became the Dutch royal family. Queen Wilhelmina declared that when she died the palace would go to the State, and it did in 1962 when Wilhelmina died at this retreat. After a thorough restoration, Het Loo now houses a national museum and library devoted to the House of Orange-Nassau in Dutch history and its gardens recently have been renovated to match earlier representation. Yet, Het Loo remains habitable, as evidenced by the use of the palace by Japanese royalty who are close friends to the royal family of Netherlands. Japanese Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko visited the Netherlands in October 1979 and May 2000 and stayed at the Het Oude Loo castle on both occasions. In the latest known visit, Japanese Crown Prince Naruhito and his family, on a two-week private trip to the Netherlands in 2006, visited former royal stables with Queen Beatrix and her family and stayed at Het Loo. This summer home is worth a visit by anyone who is interested in architecture, gardening and history. You can visit the park all year round, but the area around the castle is open only a few months a year.
8. Sofiero Palace: This palace represents a royal retreat that has been given to the state, while the current royals in Sweden look to other resources for relaxation. Sofiero Palace was King Gustav VI Adolf’s summer residence throughout his adult life, and he bequeathed Sofiero to Helsingborg Municipality in his will in 1973 after he created one of the most spectacular rhododendron collections at this estate. Few Swedish palaces can boast a more beautiful European setting. Today, there are over 10,000 rhododendron bushes of 300 varieties and just as many hybrids on the grounds. In recent years, the park has hosted a wide range of events, including open-air concerts, garden displays, exhibitions, courses and craft fairs. The current King of Sweden, His Majesty Carl XVI Gustaf, is the grandson of King Gustav VI Adolf, and he became the heir apparent when his father died in an airplane crash one year after the he was born. King Carl XVI Gustaf is most well known as the presenter of the Nobel Prizes each year. He and his family tend to travel to various locations for their ‘play’ rather than to retreat to a summer palace. With that said, visitors to Sofiero often can bump into royalty when they attend gallery openings or other events held at this palace.
9. The Glass Villa (Camli Kösk): Turkish presidents reside in the Çankaya Palace (shown at left), which takes its name from Ankara’s Çankaya district in the south of the capital. The palace, which was first used by Atatürk, has an important place in the history of Turkish politics. The compound, which has been enlarged in time with additional buildings and facilities, covers an area of over 400 acres. Designed by Seyfi Arkan, a Turkish architect, as a single-story modern residence during the mid 1930s, the Glass Villa is part of this compound and has served as a residence for Prime Ministers and Speakers of the Republican Senate until 1970. Through the years, the Glass Villa was extensively modified and extended, the latest having been completed in 1996. Since then, it serves again as a guest house for visiting heads of states as it once did in the 1950s. Although uncertain, we believe this may be the building where Queen Elizabeth II stayed on her recent visit to Ankara. Outside Ankara, Turkey has laid out the welcome mat country-wide to royals who wish to support Turkey’s bid to join the European Union (EU). So far as the West is concerned, Turkey can be said to be the most successful example of a Muslim country which has embraced democracy. Turkey closed its first chapter of negotiations with the EU in June 2006, and in May 2008, Queen Elizabeth II made her first visit to Turkey in 37 years. Despite France’s opposition to these developments, the French beauty, Marie Cavallier, joined Prince Joachim of Denmark in Turkey for a romantic getaway in summer 2007, where he proposed to her on bended knee. No matter if it’s Ankara, Bursa, Istanbul or some unknown hideaway, expect to hear about some royal getaway or real estate purchase news from this country over the upcoming seasons. The earliest date that Turkey could enter the EU, by the way, is 2013.
10. Whisper Bay: This new and exclusive development represents the typical resort that is replacing summer palaces and homes for many royals and celebrities. Located in Airlie Beach, near Queensland, Australia, this area - together with adjacent Shute Harbour - provides one of the embarkation points for both the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. Airlie Beach, has appealed to backpackers for years, so it historically has been a relaxed and low-key tourist destination. But, this feel is changing rapidly, thanks to developers such as Rory O’Brien’s $280 million-dollar Whisper Bay project. A horde of the rich and famous, who use jets and sails to travel to and from this resort, have bought into O’Brien’s development among other exclusive development enclaves located in this area. Airlee Beach residents and visitors now see the likes of Scottish actor Sean Connery, former Dreamworld boss John Longhurst, ex-league rugby star Matthew Johns, former Prime Minister Bob Hawke, and shipping multimillionaire Owen Glenn as they enjoy the area’s relaxing amenities. As a side note, Airlee Beach really doesn’t contain a beach - but it does sport a man-made lagoon.

From: International Listings by Andy Hagans and Brian Thibault.

“Baby”
By Susan Flanders

She was the baby of the family and her story is one of my favorites. This is a picture of Princess Beatrice on her wedding day, wearing her mother’s wedding veil. Her mother, of course, was Queen Victoria. Beatrice was the only daughter—and there were many—to be given the privilege of wearing Victoria’s own veil of honiton lace.

It might seem at times that whenever you read about the royals, Queen Victoria’s name pops up somehow. That’s because Victoria really was considered the “grandmama of Europe.” That’s because her relatives—and then her children and grandchildren went on to assume many of the thrones of Europe.

But back to Beatrice…the baby. As much as Victoria moaned about being pregnant and loathed it—in the end, the pregnancy and birth of baby Beatrice was to begin one of the fulfilling relationships of her life. It all began on a chilly night in December, 1861. It was the night that young Beatrice’s father died in the Blue Room at Windsor. But this just wasn’t any father…this was Prince Albert, Queen Victoria’s adored–and I mean adored–husband. The night he died, the agonized and grief stricken Queen, picked up her youngest child and carried Beatrice to her own bed, laying with her throughout the night, holding Albert’s nightclothes and clutching their youngest child. There was something special about Beatrice…in some ways she was the nearest link to Albert. Beatrice comforted her.

The baby had been a happy and carefree child, full of enthusiasms–but, as Victoria’s world crumbled on that terrible night, so would Beatrice’s personality. Never again would relatives see the confident, bubbly personality of the old Beatrice. After that night it was buried away forever, and she became guarded. I’m sure it was partly shock–seeing her distraught mother and family–but it was also partly in response to the years of mourning that went on in the daily life of Victoria’s court…crying, hushed voices, tension, melancholy, melodrama.

Each elder daughter took her turn in looking after her mother. They acted as liaisons, secretaries and precious shields, keeping away the world. Eventually, Beatrice rightfully assumed her turn. Because Beatrice was the baby, there was no question that she would stay in this needed position. Whilst her other sisters married, marriage for Beatrice could not be a consideration. Quite frankly, Queen Victoria simply couldn’t do without her. And that was that.

Beatrice lived a quiet life, in rooms near her mother. She was at the Queen’s side from morning till night, reading her letters, taking dictation and notes, keeping callers at bay and keeping her dear mother company. Beatrice was very good at it too. She naturally deferred to her mother’s authority and her life was filled with all of the things that a loving companion would naturally do. She was protective, caring and genuinely adored her mother and enjoyed being with her, for the most part. She accompanied her from Buckingham Palace to Windsor Castle, then to Osborne House and we can’t forget Balmoral Castle in Scotland. For the most part they traveled to and from the latter three homes as Victoria was much too nervous to spend too much time in London.

But there always comes a time, when…well, things change. And things changed in a big way for Beatrice. In her late twenties and already a confirmed spinster, she met Henry of Battenberg at a large family event in Darmstadt. She fell in love instantly with the very handsome Battenberg…all the Battenberg brothers were known to be very handsome. And that was that. She could be as stubborn as her mother when it came right down to it. Well, she was her mother’s daughter, wasn’t she?

She was absolutely determined to marry the man of her dreams and I must say—Queen Victoria was even more determined that things would stay just the same. There would be no marriage, the Queen decreed. She simply couldn’t do without her—she would not survive it.

But, as you saw above, the Princess was in her wedding dress and so, did it happen and if so, how the heck did Beatrice pull it off? When I tell you, you won’t believe it. We’ll leave that story for another day. See part 2: “Baby Grows Up” at: http://writerofqueens.blogspot.com

——–

Susan Flanders is the creator of Writer of Queens and Queen Victoria Revealed
Susan has studied Queen Victoria since 1988 and has most of her memoirs, letters and biographies. To Susan, Victoria wasn’t the widow in black, tucked away in a castle, she was much, much more. Visit Susan’s blogs to know more and to read part 2: “Baby Grows Up“.

Dom Duarte Pio: Portugal’s King-In-Waiting
By Harold Schmautz

Portugal was the first country in the 20th century to lose her monarchy, yet the pretender to the Portuguese throne hopes the country will be the first in the 21st century to win back the Monarchy. Dom Duarte Pio, Duke of Bragança, is confident of re-gaining the throne that was taken away from the Royal House of Bragança in 1910 because recent opinion polls demonstrated that up to 30 percent of the people would not mind having a King instead of a president. This high approval rate for a Crowned Head of State is not just nostalgia, but is to a large extent Dom Duarte’s good reputation as someone who cares about the country and the environment.

Since the 1970s he has advocated organic farming, he is an outspoken critic of the destruction of the landscape in rural areas, where holiday homes replace farm houses. He travels the country and listens to the people, but not as a politician who wants to catch their votes, but as someone who cares. Though the Monarchist People’s Party (Partido Popular Monárquico – PPM) has deputies in the national assembly, the King in waiting keeps his distance even to his most loyal supporters. He knows as King it would be dangerous to be affiliated with a single party. He is above party lines and has supporters in nearly all democratic parties.

On the other hand he formed a non-partisan organisation, the Causa Real, the Royal Cause, which has 10,000 members all over Portugal. Recently the organisation elected a new chairman: Paulo Teixeira Pinto. He had served Portuguese presidents and prime ministers in the last 30 years before quitting politics and becoming secretary general of Portugal’s Central Bank. Then he joined the country’s biggest finance group. After leaving the Millenium Bank he re-organised his personal life and became a solicitor. He seems to be determined to promote the Cause Real to a new level and make it a vehicle for Dom Duarte’s claims to the throne.

Born on 15th May 1945 in Berne/Switzerland, Dom Duarte and his family were banned from entering Portugal until in 1950 the National Assembly repealed the laws of exile. In 1951 Dom Duarte visited Portugal for the first time accompanied by his aunt the Infanta Filippa. In 1952 he moved to Portugal permanently with his parents and his two brothers. From 1957 to 1959 Dom Duarte was enrolled in the Colégio Nuno Álvares in Santo Tirso in Northern Portugal. In 1960 he entered the Military College in Lisbon. He attended the Instituto Superior de Agronomia (now part of the Technical University of Lisbon) where he received a degree in agricultural sciences. Later he attended the Graduate Institute of Development Studies of the University of Geneva.

From 1968 to 1971 Dom Duarte did military service and worked as a helicopter pilot in the Portuguese Air Force in Angola. In 1972 he participated with a multi-ethnic Angolan group in the organization of an independent list of candidates to the National Assembly. This resulted in his expulsion from Angola by order of the then Portuguese Prime Minister Marcelo Caetano.When Dom Duarte married the Portguese noblewoman Isabel de Herédia on 13th May 1995 the country enjoyed the first royal wedding since the marriage of King Dom Luís in 1862. The ceremony, televsed throughout Portugal and other Portuguese speaking countries including Brazil, Angola and Mozambique, was celebrated in the Monarstery of Jerónimos in Lisbon and presided over by the Patriarch of Lisbon, Cardinal António Ribeiro, and attended by the president of the republic, Mário Soares, the president of the National Assembly, the then prime minister Aníbal Cavaco Silva, who was elected president of Portugal in January 2006.

The birth of Infante Afonso, Prince of Beira, on 25th March 1996 was the first royal birth since the birth of Dom Manuel II, Portugal’s last King, in 1889. With two more children born in 1997, Infanta Maria Francisca, and Infante Dinis, Duke of Porto, in 1999 the succession is secure and the Portuguese Royal Family will florish in the 21st century, ready to ascend to the throne.

Links:

Official website:
http://www.casareal.co.pt

A Royal Family Video:
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=5K_VpFaUDwA&feature=related

The Royal Wedding in 1995 (in 18 parts!): http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=N6QI5nDbrpA

————–

Harold Schmautz is a German journalist and monarchist who resides in Melbourne, Australia. Harold supports the work of the Australian Monarchist League and founded the newsgroup “Monarchie der Zukunft” (The Future of the Monarchy).

Charlotte Casiraghi: Monte Carlo’s Girl Next Door

She isn’t a royal princess, but Charlotte Casiraghi has proven that she doesn’t need a title to capture the hearts and minds of the public. Charlotte’s looks are exotic and her pedigree is legendary, making her one of the most admired aristocratic women in the world.

The New Grimaldi Generation

Charlotte Casiraghi was born August 3, 1986 to Princess Caroline of Monaco and Stefano Casiraghi. Charlotte is their second child and only daughter, born between elder brother Andrea and younger brother Pierre. Charlotte is currently fourth in line to the throne of Monaco after her mother and brothers. Charlotte’s uncle, Prince Albert, is the current ruler of the principality.

Charlotte and her brothers grew up surrounded by the history of their mother’s Grimaldi roots in Monaco. She was close to her grandfather Prince Rainier, but sadly never knew her grandmother Princess Grace. The “All American Girl” who became a Monegasque royal upon her marriage to Rainier had died in a car accident in 1982, a few years before Charlotte was born.

Charlotte is beloved by fans who fondly remember Grace, whose glamour they say she has inherited. With her father Stefano’s shimmering aqua eyes, Caroline’s pouty lips, and Grace’s finely chiseled features, Charlotte is a photographer’s dream come true.

“She makes me think of Brigitte Bardot,” says Karl Lagerfeld, an old friend of the family.

The Drama Unfolds

Charlotte’s family roots are just as dramatic as her sultry looks.

On January 8, 1297, cunning ancestor Francois Grimaldi disguised himself as a Franciscan monk, sneaking into Monaco’s fortress - now the Prince’s Palace - and overtaking the guards. Grimaldi seized both the fortress and the port of Hercules which was situated right on the Mediterranean. Thus began the 700-year reign of the infamous family in Monaco.

Grimaldi was medieval nobility who boasted both a French and Italian bloodline. For the most part, his family were loyal to their overlords, many of whom the Grimaldis owed their survival. Whenever trouble came rolling through, it was a different matter: the family had no qualms about switching sides when it suited them. They were certainly no strangers to the term “kill or be killed”, and supported whoever was on the winning side of a battle.

Two hundred years after Francois Grimaldi’s takeover, letters patent were written on February 10th, 1512 to establish Monaco’s independence from France. Though Monaco was now independent, the responsibility for its protection bounced between France, Spain, and Italy.

The annexation of the fortress and port by Francois Grimaldi was not the only notorious deed within the dynasty. According to one 13th century legend, Prince Rainier I kidnapped and raped an innocent girl. The girl became a witch in order to exact her revenge upon the Prince, and she cursed him and his family for generations to come: “Never will a Grimaldi find true happiness in marriage”.

It certainly seemed to come true in the eyes of many for Prince Rainier III. He lost Grace in the car accident, and none of his children had or kept a marriage. Princess Stephanie, the youngest, is twice divorced with a history of failed relationships; Princess Caroline, who was already divorced from Phillipe Junot and then lost Stefano; and Prince Albert, who is still unmarried but with two children from former girlfriends.

Happily, Princess Caroline is in fact the current exception. Though she lost her beloved Stefano, her third marriage to HRH Prince Ernst August of Hanover is still going strong. Her marriage to Ernst, a direct descendant of Britain’s King George III, also made Caroline a Royal Highness.

Brilliance and Tragedy

Prince Albert II, the latest princely sovereign in the 700-year old Grimaldi line, lives in the pink “Prince’s Palace”, a far more placid place than in the days of his forebears. Albert’s father, Prince Rainier, left behind him a successful Monaco created with the help of his elegant wife Grace Kelly and eventually his son-in-law Stefano’s business sense.

Along with Princess Grace, the Casiraghis were also the best public relations the dynasty ever had.

Monaco’s national day was a time for the family to be viewed by the people and celebrate their independence. They would gather on the balcony and wave to the people. Stefano would hold Charlotte, and Caroline would hold baby Pierre while a little Andrea would peek through the rails. In every photo of Stefano and his children, he was seen to be gazing lovingly at Charlotte or with immense pride at his sons. The young family brought a cozy yet glamorous aura to the ruling family of Monaco.

Stefano was tall, blond, and often referred to as Caroline’s “Prince Charming”. He was said to be devoted to her and their children, never straying from the marriage nor bringing scandal to the family. He helped Rainier with his vision of the principality being a key location for tourists and an avenue of wealth through legitimate casinos and hotels. Up to that point its reputation was infamous for being “a sunny place for shady people”.* Monaco, though only the size of Central Park in New York, became the glamour capital of Europe.

The happy family of Casiraghi and Grimaldi alike was shattered when Stefano, an avid speed-boat racer, perished in an accident. This dangerous sport was Stefano’s favorite, and he had already experienced several narrow escapes that had set Caroline’s teeth on edge. She begged him to end his racing and to consider the children if something were to happen to him. It was reported that this particular race in October 1990 would lead into his retirement, but instead it cost him his life. Princess Caroline was devastated. The accident perpetuated the myth that the Grimaldis were doomed to never find or keep true love.

“What am I going to do?” cried Caroline. “What am I going to do?”

The Princess leaned on her father to get her through these difficult times. When she regained her bearings, Caroline moved Charlotte and her brothers to a quiet village in France away from the spotlight of Monte Carlo and the press. There, the little family struggled to come to terms with Stefano’s death. Charlotte was only four years old.

Moving Ahead

Charlotte’s characteristic earthiness was instilled in her by her mother. Princess Caroline wanted her children to have a more normal life by giving them their father’s surname rather than a title. Caroline was much like Britain’s Princess Anne in this sense. She was a private person when it came to her family, and wanted her children left alone as much as possible.

Then, they moved to Remy Saint Provence to escape paparazzi and other prying eyes after Stefano’s death. It was in this quaint enclave in France that Charlotte grew up and formed her solidly commonsense personality.

It has been said that Charlotte’s biggest fear was that she would end up being seen as a socialite with no real interests. So, Charlotte studied hard and also began to take up equestrian sports. She excelled in her competitions, determined to be taken seriously as a keen sportswoman right from the start. Her skill and energy in show-jumping placed Charlotte right up in the professional ranks with her contemporaries Zara Phillips and Athina Onassis de Miranda.

Horses are not the only area of expertise for Charlotte Casiraghi; the beautiful Monegasque inherited a lot of her father’s sporty genes and is a regular on the wintry slopes with her skis or snowboard. She can often be seen in the Alps with her family, zipping down the mountains like a pro.

Charlotte is also very serious about her schoolwork, passing her baccalaureate exam with “excellent” marks and studying philosophy. She is also multi-lingual with French, Italian, English, and German under her belt. Any fears she had about being perceived as a “spoiled little rich girl” have certainly be laid to rest.

Charlotte is never one to dress or behave lavishly, either. You could never mistake her for a bed-hopping socialite so often seen in these times. Her level-headed cool manifested itself in her wardrobe as well as on the show-jumping circuit. She was always casual yet quality, sexy yet refined. She is a truly down-to-earth European girl that females everywhere sought to emulate and whom males adored, even when Charlotte was still only in her teens.

Breaking The Curse?

Nearly a decade after Stefano’s passing, Charlotte obtained a father-figure in her mother’s third husband, Prince Ernst August of Hanover. Charlotte was now related by marriage to the British Royal Family.

Caroline gave birth to her youngest child Alexandra shortly after her marriage to Ernst. Charlotte, Pierre, and Andrea all get along well with their stepfather and their step brothers, and all three of Caroline’s children love their little sister Alexandra to pieces.

It seems that this branch of the Grimaldi family is finally successful in the world of matrimony, and with such a firm head on her shoulders, the royal watchers of the world wait with baited breath to see who Charlotte will choose as a husband. We will wait in anticipation as the newest Grimaldi generation asserts itself and steers the legendary family into the 21st century.

Thanks to:
http://www.style.com/beauty/icon/041207
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charlotte_Casiraghi
http://www.riviera-magazine.com/tourisme/monaco/MonacoGrimaldi-us.html
http://www.heraldica.org/topics/national/monaco.htm

* This quote is attributed to Somerset Maugham.

Dame Te Ata
A Maori Queen & Her Dynasty

Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu, known simply as Te Ata, was the first queen of the M?ori of New Zealand. She was queen for 40 years, the longest reigning monarch, and passed away in 2006 at the age of 75. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia

“In times of great change in society and in M?oridom, Dame Te Ata has provided both continuity and outstanding leadership,” said Helen Clark, Prime Minister of New Zealand. “She will be greatly missed.”

Te Ata, the sixth monarch in what had been an all-male hereditary line, was beloved by her people. Though the M?ori monarch doesn’t hold a constitutional function, Te Ata was a highly regarded figurehead and presided over the cultural events of her people. She was supportive in local and even international indigenous issues.

The former Princess Piki was named the first Queen of the Maori monarchy - also known as the ‘King Movement’ - on May 23, 1966. She assumed her mother’s maiden name of Te Atairangikaahu.

Like the young Princess Elizabeth, Princess Piki was happily married with several children when she had to step in to represent her father, whose health was declining. King Koroki only had daughters, so although there were grumblings over the crowning of a woman as the head of the ‘Kingitanga’, it was a hereditary line that could not be broken. Lineage in Maori society is of the utmost importance.

Te Ata, like her father and her forebears, loved her people and wanted them to have as much of a role as possible in their country’s affairs. She set about promoting culture and language, and she supported Maori officials.

The King Movement of which Te Ata was now head started as a reaction to British colonization in New Zealand. Maori had been rapidly losing land and independence to European settlers. They did, however, admire monarchy and saw it as an effective form of government for their people.

The Kingly Roots

The M?ori are descended from early tribal Polynesians that came to New Zealand over thousands of years. The British and Europeans, on the other hand, were relatively new to the island. European settlers and Christian missionaries only began flowing into New Zealand in the 1830s. After a period of tribal warfare and the chaos of European diseases, Queen Victoria was called in to intervene and help. The Queen annexed New Zealand by royal proclamation soon after in 1840.

A decade later, the M?ori King Movement (the ‘Kingitanga’) sprang to life. It was seen as a way for Maori to gain independence and to have representation equal to the Britons’ Queen Victoria. One M?ori chief in particular, P?tatau Te Wherowhero, was pursuaded to take on the role of the first native monarch of New Zealand.

By the time he agreed to become king, P?tatau was an elderly man. He reigned for only two years before he passed away. He was succeeded by his son T?whiao, whose reign lasted 34 years. T?whiao reigned in what is said to be the most difficult time in Maori history: the white European (P?keh?) population was growing, and the Maori population was in decline. Would the Maori lose their identity?

T?whiao was a deeply religious and peaceful man, who knew that to fight the colonial power was to fight a losing battle. He did state however that the Maori would reclaim their country one day and justice would prevail for the invasion they suffered.

His family, along with his heir Mahuta T?whiao, isolated themselves from the rest of New Zealand by moving further into “King Country” away from Europeans. Mahuta T?whiao grew up with little English and remained a staunch Maori traditionalist.

Mahuta T?whiao established the King Movement’s first courts of law. Through this newly established law and order during his reign, along with a series of deals made with Colonial heads, Mahuta T?whiao regained partial authority for the Maori, who by this time had lost acres and acres of land and much of their power. It was a foot in the door for more to come.

Mahuta’s son, Te Rata, was the most suitable candidate to succeed his father. Te Rata was knowledgable in P?keh? affairs and it was felt that this would help his fellow Maori to better understand European custom. It would also help them regain more independence.

After his death in 1933, Te Rata was succeeded by his son Koroki. At first, it did not seem as though Koroki would succeed him. Like Tsar Nicolas of Russia, Koroki was nervous of the thought of being king and did not feel that he was up to the task. He pleaded to be removed from the line of succession. Koroki’s other major concern was his people - they were so poor, how could they afford to support a king? he thought.

Koroki was outnumbered. At the tangihanga (funeral) for his father, it was agreed by all the visiting chiefs that the Kingitanga should continue and strive to prosper with Koroki as leader. He would not be completely alone in his duties - his senior uncles helped rule and gave him valuable input. Since Koroki’s role was to be a representative, his life was always full of official visits from other royalty, prime ministers, the governor-general, and - most crucially - ministers of the British Crown.

When not engulfed in a flurry of official duties, Koroki could be found mucking in with his people and helping them in their work. It was said the he could usually be found in his overalls, working in a large garden and growing food for his people when times were hard. Koroki supported those who were widowed, orphaned, and desperately poor. He met with elders and attended many tribal meetings and functions. Koroki was truly a man of the people, a trait passed to his daughter, Princess Piki. Throughout the 1950s, King Koroki, as dutiful as ever, remained informed on indigenous issues though he had to retire from public life due to declining health.

Te Ata, the Queen of the Maori upon the death of her father, led her people admirably. She enjoyed much respect from her Maori people and indeed all New Zealanders, and was very politically astute. Te Ata was admired most for her determination that indigenous and European alike should have good relations. Like her predecessor, King T?whiao, she was a peaceful person who knew that divisions and fighting led to nothing.

Te Ata’s influence on the Tainui Waka confederation (the four Maori tribes) was felt when, in 1995, the confederation was able to reach a settlement with the British Crown over the annexation of land. New Zealand’s first major land claim settlement was then signed by the Maori Queen for NZ$170 million on behalf of a tribe that had lost nearly a million acres of land.

Turangawaewae marae is the formal seat of the Maori King movement. In December 1953, the newly crowned Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh made their first state visit. This visit was seen as a reconciliation between the British Crown and the Maori, whose King Movement had by this time been well-established. With Te Ata at the helm, the Maori truly had a representative on par with the British Queen.

Te Ata became Dame Te Ata when she was bestowed with the Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1970. She was also one of the first to be given the Order of New Zealand when it was established in 1987.

Coming to a Close

Te Ata rarely gave interviews, but decided to do so in 2003 to talk about the future of the King Movement. Te Ata gave the strong impression that, out of her seven children, one of her sons would be chosen.

Like Queen Victoria, who once stated that having a King was the ‘natural order of things’, Te Ata said, “My feeling at the moment is that the people are ready for a male heir to take over.”

Te Ata’s son, the current King Tuheitia Paki, even shares a birthday with Queen Elizabeth II. He was born on Elizabeth’s April 21st birthday in 1955, a few short years after her coronation. He is the seventh monarch in the line.

The people are ready for a king, but still adore their Queen whom they deeply miss. However, King Tuheitia is said to be a strong leader who places great importance on education and Maori identity. Tuheitia has even met with members of Pacific Royal families, such as Hawaii and Tonga, to declare unity and shared ideals.

There is even a Maori in the British Royal Family - Lady Davina Windsor, a daughter of the Duke of Gloucester, married a Maori man named Gary Lewis. He is the first Maori in any sitting royal family.
____________________

Thank you to:
Dr. Noel Cox
Wikipedia
http://www.monumentalstories.gen.nz/bio_65.html
http://www.nzhistory.net.nz/timeline&new_date=23/5
http://www.iht.com/articles/2006/08/16/asia/web.0816queen.php
http://tvnz.co.nz/view/page/413551/815903

Andrea Casiraghi
Monaco’s Prince William

Andrea Albert Pierre Casiraghi was born June 8, 1984. He is the eldest child of HRH Princess Caroline of Hanover (nee Princess of Monaco) and her second husband, Stefano Casiraghi. His maternal grandparents are the late Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace, the Irish-American Oscar winning actress.

Thanks to his grandfather Rainier’s amendment to the constitution in 2002, Andrea will most likely be the reigning Prince of Monaco if his uncle, Prince Albert II, dies without legitimate children. Andrea is currently second in line to the throne after his mother, Caroline.

He has two younger siblings, Charlotte and Pierre, and a younger half-sister, Princess Alexandra of Hanover.

Family Tragedy

One of the greatest tragedies in the Grimaldi Family was the death of Princess Grace, the grandmother Andrea never knew. In September of 1982, Grace, along with her younger daughter Stephanie, were driving home to Monaco from France. Their car went over a cliff, killing Grace and seriously injuring Princess Stephanie. It is widely rumored that Stephanie was driving the car when the accident happened, and has carried much guilt over the death of her mother.

Things began to look up when Princess Caroline married second husband Stefano Casiraghi. They were married on December 29, 1983. Caroline had found the love of her life with Stefano, something that she desparately needed after the death of her mother and her first disasterous marriage to Phillipe Junot. Caroline and Stefano had Andrea in 1984, Charlotte in 1986 and Pierre in 1987.

Caroline and Stefano only had one particular bout of marital discord - his dangerous hobby of speed boat racing. She feared he would be killed or seriously injured, and pleaded with him to end the sport. But Stefano was not afraid. It was what he loved doing, and would continue to race. On October 3, 1990, the Princess’ worst nightmare came true. Stefano was killed in a speed boating accident. Andrea moved with his mother and his siblings to France, and the family remained there for many years recuperating from Stefano’s death.

Another Chapter

After their father’s death, Andrea and his brother and sister grew up far from the spotlight and glamour of Monte Carlo. His sister Charlotte became a notable equestrian, Pierre is said to be keen on the saxophone, and Andrea himself skis and plays guitar. Andrea and Pierre are also big sport fans. This year’s World Cup in Germany has inspired the lads to take it to their own fields in the Luis II Stadium in Monaco. They ran out onto the pitch alongside the other members of the “Star Team For Children”, an effort to raise money for the children’s charity Amade.

In 1999, Andrea gained a stepfather when his mother married Prince Ernst August of Hanover. Caroline’s brood expanded when she gave birth to Princess Alexandra of Hanover in July of that year.
The family all have a good relationship with one another, and the siblings dote on Alexandra.

Andrea met with one final family loss - the death of his grandfather, Prince Rainier in 2005. In his last years, Rainier had several bouts of ill health and been hospitalized on numerous occasions with heart and respiratory problems. It seemed for a time that Rainier was improving a bit, but after a grievously short time at home, he was whisked back to the hospital with a chest infection. He took a turn for the worst in intensive care, and he passed away quietly on April 6, 2005, just four days after the death of Pope John Paul II.

Star Status

Andrea is said to be giving Prince William a run for his money with his tall frame, long blond hair and chiseled cheekbones. He doesn’t try to lay claim to any heartthrob status, and is more shy than glamourous ‘hunk’. Sister Charlotte is considered to be the most beautiful royal in Europe, with her stunning looks being compared to her mother’s. Neither Andrea nor his siblings are styled as ‘prince’ or ‘princess’, but they are certainly dazzling stars on the European royal and social scenes. Hopefully there will be more from Andrea and his stunning siblings in the years to come.

Written by: Mandy
© 2006 MandysRoyalty.org

Modern Monarchy: Where Does Britain Stand?
European Monarchies Point The Way.

It seems that the new Crown Princesses of Europe are all the rage. Princesses Letizia, Maxima, Mette-Marit, and Mary are admired by millions. Their fame is spreading all across the Continent, and even overseas. They are charming, elegant, intelligent, and… commoners.

People love a good romance, and when a beautiful girl marries a prince, it is the news of the century. And not only has it happened once, it has happened four times within a couple of years. Now they all have gorgeous babies to further their dynasties, accomplishing the (now) second most important aspect of a royal marriage: heirs. The top priority? Love!

It seems that Europe’s future kings are marrying for love alone and are more than willing to find the right girl outside royal circles. Today’s Crown Princesses of Europe have come from fairly basic backgrounds, but their warm personalities, maturity, and ability to relate to regular people are what seals the deal on their suitability; no title required.

With these things in mind, what do we envision when we think of the future of the British monarchy? In this day and age, it seems that leadership abilities and organizational skills acquired from higher education, along with critical people-skills from a career, is paramount.

The public was pleased when Prince Edward married Sophie Rhys-Jones, a public relations strategist. Lately, it’s Kate Middleton who has many people wondering if she will be a royal wife. Will’s university educated and press savvy girlfriend has been seen as a strong contender for the title of Princess, owing much to her fantastic relationship with The Queen.

So it seems that bucking royal tradition happens even in the steadfast United Kingdom. Girls outside the aristocracy are deemed just as suitable as a royal or blueblood. It’s not what title they have, it’s how well they can support the Monarchy and keep the positive ideals of the British royal tradition alive.

Below, we look at the wives of the Princes of Spain, Norway, Holland, and Denmark respectively and analyze their strengths and circumstances. Which of the following types would we choose for William?:

Crown Princess Letizia, Princess of Asturias and wife of Prince Felipe of Spain, obtained a master’s degree in audiovisual journalism. She then became an award-winning journalist and television presenter. Letizia had even been married once already, but she and her husband divorced in 2000. The Roman Catholic Church allowed her to marry Crown Prince Felipe because her previous marriage had been a civil ceremony.

Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway, whose relationship with Prince Haakon had met with some controversy due to her out-of-wedlock child and wild past, nobly claimed responsibility for her actions. After her marriage to the Prince, she attended the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London. She was also accepted as an intern at NORAD, the Norwegian government’s development organization. At the time of this writing, the Crown Princess is attending lectures at the faculties of arts and social sciences at the University of Oslo.

Crown Princess Maxima of the Netherlands was a similarly controversial choice for an heir to the throne, though it was no fault of hers. Maxima’s father Jorge had been accused of cooperating with a military junta in Argentina during a bloody dictatorship. Thousands of people had been murdered, and the question of this man being at all attached to the Dutch Royal House brought about many debates. But Dutch parliament allowed the union of Maxima and Willem to take place, and even Queen Beatrix came out in support of her son’s fiance. Maxima’s father, however, could not attend her wedding.

A former investment banker, Maxima graduated in economics from the Universidad Católica Argentina in 1995 before working for companies Argentina, New York and Europe. She speaks Spanish, English, and now Dutch - no easy feat!

Crown Princess Mary of Denmark attended Hobart Matriculation College for two years. She completed her studies at the University of Tasmania, obtaining Bachelors of Commerce and Laws (BCom.LLB) degrees. She later qualified for professional certificates in advertising and marketing. Prior to her marriage, she worked for DDB Needham in Melbourne, Young and Rubicam in Sydney, and Microsoft Business Solutions in Copenhagen. She also taught Business English at a language school in Paris!

Today’s world demands that the leaders of countries serve the people to the best of their ability, and that they should know how to reign effectively. Everything they do is criticized, scrutinized, and laid bare for public consumption. Not only will a well-educated, worldly consort will do the monarchy a world of good, but so will a well-educated heir and king. Prince William should take time to learn about political science, languages, and business. Art history is a very classical, timeless piece of knowledge to have, but in a highly developed and fast-moving world, the Prince - and the monarchy - needs to be on top of things. Now is the time!

Written by: Mandy
© 2005 MandysRoyalty.org