History

The Austrian Archduchess whose immunity led to her becoming a queen

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2nd November 2024
Marie Antoinette is one of the most talked about figures in history, known for centuries as the poster child for the excesses of the French court. But a disfiguring disease played a part in her marrying the heir to the French throne.  Archduchess Maria Antonia Josefa Johanna was born on 2 November 1755 to the Empress Maria Theresa and Francis I, Holy Roman Emperor. She was the youngest…
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History

The Affair of the Diamond Necklace: a damning scandal

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30th October 2024
Marie Antoinette is without a doubt one of the most tragic figures in royal history. And part of her downfall was due to a diamond necklace that she never owned.  King Louis XV commissioned a diamond necklace for his beloved mistress, Madame du Barry. He chose two jewellers from Paris, Charles Auguste Boehmer and Paul Bassenge, to create the 2,000,000 livre necklace which was meant to outshine…
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Features

The worst royal gift: a haunted ring that is said to have doomed a whole dynasty

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28th October 2024
While the idea of receiving a piece of jewellery could be the ultimate gift, sometimes it comes with more baggage than it is worth. And for one opal ring, it seems that it may have come complete with a curse for one royal family.  Virginia Oldoini, Countess of Castiglione, was an Italian aristocrat who was incredibly well-connected in European society. She was known for her exceptional beauty…
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Features

A trio of royal homes that now host weddings

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25th October 2024
Balmoral Castle could soon open its doors to weddings. The royal residence has put in an application to its local council to be able to host celebrations. The plans would see the Queen’s Building on the estate, not far from the main castle, hosting weddings and other events for over 250 people. The King, or whoever filled the form in for him, promises to keep music low and make sure every…
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