European Royals Gather in Athens for Princess Irene’s Funeral
Athens, January 19 – Representatives of European royal families, including King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain, gathered on Monday at the Athens Metropolitan Cathedral for the funeral service of former Princess Irene of Greece. The ceremony preceded her burial at the former royal estate of Tatoi, outside Athens.
Princess Irene, 83, passed away on Thursday in Spain. She was the third child of the former King of Greece, Pavlos. Her final resting place will be the Tatoi estate, alongside her parents, Pavlos and Frederica, and her brother, former King Constantine II, who died in 2023.
Distinguished Guests and Family Members Pay Respects
Among those attending the funeral service were Princess Irene’s sister, Queen Sofia of Spain, as well as Spain’s King Felipe VI, his wife Queen Letizia with their daughters. Her nephews, Pavlos, Nikolaos, and Philip, sons of Greece’s former King Constantine II, were also present to pay their respects.
Earlier in the day, Princess Irene’s body lay in state at the Chapel of Agios Eleftherios, which is adjacent to the Athens Metropolitan Cathedral, allowing for private condolences before the main service.
A Life Dedicated to Service and Arts
Born in Cape Town, South Africa, on May 11, 1942, Princess Irene led a multifaceted life. She was an accomplished pianist and archaeologist, and briefly held the position of heir to the Greek throne. Throughout her life, Princess Irene dedicated herself to spiritual and humanitarian work, leaving a lasting legacy of service.
In her later years, Princess Irene divided her time between Greece and Spain, eventually making Spain her permanent residence after 2018. Her passing marks the end of an era for the Greek royal family and a significant loss for those who admired her dedication to various causes.
The funeral brought together members of European royalty, highlighting the strong familial ties that connect the continent’s monarchies and their shared history. The solemn occasion provided an opportunity for reflection on Princess Irene’s life and contributions.
The burial at the Tatoi estate underscores the historical significance of the location as the traditional burial ground for members of the former Greek royal family. This event follows closely on the heels of the passing of her brother, King Constantine II, further marking a period of transition for the family.
The attendance of such prominent figures from European royalty emphasizes the respect and affection held for Princess Irene, both within her immediate family and across the broader royal community. The service was a dignified tribute to a life lived with purpose and dedication.
Source: https://www.ekathimerini.com/in-depth/society-in-depth/1292771/funeral-service-for-former-princess-irene-of-greece-held-in-athens/
