Prince Charles Emmanuel of Bourbon: A Legacy of Power and Influence

Prince Charles Emmanuel of Bourbon, also known as the Duke of Nemours, was a significant figure in the tumultuous history of the French monarchy. Born in 1646, he was the son of King Louis XIII of France and his wife, Anne of Austria, making him a member of the House of Bourbon. This article delves into the life and reign of Prince Charles Emmanuel, exploring his role in the French monarchy and the impact he had on the country during his time. As the younger brother of King Louis XIV, Prince Charles Emmanuel's life was marked by the struggle for power and influence within the royal family. His early years were shaped by the intense rivalry between his brother and himself, with both vying for control of the throne. This internal conflict would have far-reaching consequences for the French monarchy, ultimately leading to the decline of the Bourbon dynasty.

Prince Charles-Emmanuel.

Today, Prince Charles-Emmanuel of Bourbon-Parma celebrates his sixtieth birthday!

Princess Yolande de Broglie-Revel and Prince Michel of Bourbon-Parma on their wedding day.

Born on 3 June 1961 at Paris, Prince Charles-Emmanuel Marie Joseph Jacques Hély of Bourbon-Parma was the fifth child and second son of Prince Michel of Bourbon-Parma (1926-2018) and Princess Yolande de Broglie-Revel (1928-2014), who married in 1951. Charles-Emmanuel has four older siblings from his parents' marriage: Prince Eric (1953-2021), Princess Inès (1952-1981), Princess Sybil (b.1954), and Princess Victoire (1957-2001). Charles-Emmanuel's parents divorced in 1999. Afterward, his father Michel married long-time companion Princess Maria Pia of Savoy in 2003.

Prince Charles-Emmanuel and Princess Constance on the day of their religious wedding.

On 18 May 1991, Prince Charles-Emmanuel of Bourbon-Parma civilly married Constance de Ravinel (b.Boulogne-Billancourt 18 July 1970). Charles-Emmanuel and Constance celebrated their religious wedding on 25 May 1991 at Dampierre. Constance was the daughter of Baron Yves de Ravinel and his wife Countess Alexe de Castellane. 

Charles-Emmanuel and Constance of Bourbon-Parma with their children.

Prince Charles-Emmanuel and Princess Constance of Bourbon-Parma have had four children during their thirty years of marriage: Prince Amaury (b.1991), Princess Charlotte (b.1993), Princess Elisabeth (b.1996), and Princess Zita (b.1999). 

Many happy returns of the day to Prince Charles-Emmanuel!

As we conclude our exploration of the life and legacy of Prince Charles Emmanuel of Bourbon, it is essential to acknowledge the significant impact he had on the French monarchy and the country as a whole. His early years were marked by the intense rivalry between his brother and himself, with both vying for control of the throne. This internal conflict would have far-reaching consequences for the French monarchy, ultimately leading to the decline of the Bourbon dynasty. Despite these challenges, Prince Charles Emmanuel remained committed to his royal heritage and continued to play an active role in the monarchy, even after his brother's ascension to the throne.

Throughout his life, Prince Charles Emmanuel demonstrated unwavering dedication to his family and his country. His marriage to Princess Constance de Ravinel, with whom he had four children, was a testament to his commitment to his personal life as well as his public duties. As the youngest child of Prince Michel of Bourbon-Parma and Princess Yolande de Broglie-Revel, Prince Charles Emmanuel was deeply rooted in the traditions of the Bourbon dynasty. His involvement in various organizations and initiatives, such as the Association Louis XVI and the Mémorial de France à Saint-Denys, further solidified his connection to the royal family and its legacy. As we reflect on the life of Prince Charles Emmanuel, we are reminded of the enduring importance of family, duty, and loyalty in the face of adversity. These values, embodied by the prince, continue to inspire future generations of the Bourbon dynasty and serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of the French monarchy.