Originally published on E! Online
Austrian Aristocracy in Mourning
Archduchess Estelle de Saint-Romain of Austria, who was married to Archduke Carl Christian, has passed away, as confirmed by her family. She was 46 years old.
Details on Her Passing
In a statement released on March 8 via Le Figaro’s Carnet du Jour, it was noted that Estelle’s husband, children, parents, and in-laws were “deeply saddened” by her death on March 4. While the statement did not specify her cause of death, Point De Vue mentioned cancer as a potential cause. Her funeral was held on March 11 at the Franciscan Monastery of Cimiez in Nice, France.
Survived by Her Family
Estelle is survived by her spouse and their five children: Zita, 17, Anezka, 15, Anna, 12, Paola, 10, and Pier-Giorgia, 4, all of whom attended the funeral, according to Point De Vue. Other notable attendees included Princess Astrid of Belgium and Ferdinand of Habsburg.
Funeral Ceremony Highlights
Brother Antonio Basso, who officiated the ceremony, remarked that “Estelle and her family regularly attended Mass at the monastery.” The church was beautifully adorned with white flowers, and the children each lit a candle in her memory during the service. The ceremony concluded with the playing of “Ave Maria,” after the priest paid tribute to Estelle’s “loving wisdom.”
Marriage and Public Presence
Estelle and Carl, son of Archduke Rudolf, were married in 2007 in a festive ceremony that attracted 300 guests, including prominent royals. Even though the Austrian monarchy was dissolved in 1918, its descendants remain engaged in public life. The couple reportedly enjoyed a honeymoon in Mexico after their wedding.
