Princess Marie Celebrates 90th Birthday Milestone

As the world celebrates the milestone of Princess Marie's 90th birthday, it is a testament to her enduring legacy and dedication to her royal duties. Born on January 3, 1934, Princess Marie of Denmark, the wife of Prince Knud, has lived a life marked by her unwavering commitment to her family and her country. With a career spanning over seven decades, Princess Marie has been an integral part of the Danish royal family, playing a significant role in various charitable initiatives and cultural events. Throughout her life, Princess Marie has been a symbol of elegance, poise, and kindness, earning her the respect and admiration of the Danish people. Her tireless efforts to support various causes have left a lasting impact on the nation, and her dedication to her family has been a source of inspiration to many. As we mark this significant milestone, we take a moment to reflect on the remarkable life and achievements of Princess Marie, a true embodiment of the values of the Danish royal family1.

Fürstin Marie Gabrielle and Fürst Georg von Waldburg zu Zeil und Trauchburg, 2008. Photograph (c) Seeger-Presse.

Today, Dowager Fürstin Marie Gabrielle von Waldburg zu Zeil und Trauchburg celebrates her ninetieth birthday!

Countess Maria Draskovich von Trakostjan and Duke Albrecht of Bavaria.

Born on 30 May 1931 at Munich, Princess Marie Gabrielle Antonia José of Bavaria was a twin daughter of Duke Albrecht of Bavaria (1905-1996) and his first wife Countess Marita Draskovich von Trakostjan (1904-1969), who wed in 1930. Marie Gabrielle had three siblings: her twin sister Princess Marie Charlotte (1931-2018; married Fürst Paul von Quadt zu Wykradt und Isny), her brother Duke Franz (b.1933), and her youngest brother Duke Max (b.1937; married Countess Elizabeth Douglas). 

The Bavarian twins: Princess Marie Charlotte and Princess Marie Gabrielle.

In 1957, Princess Marie Gabrielle of Bavaria married Fürst Georg von Waldburg zu Zeil und Trauchburg (1928-2015). The couple had six children: Countess Maria Walburga (b.1958; married Baron Carl von Lerchenfeld), Countess Maria Gabriele (b.1959; married Count Bernard de Monseignat), Countess Maria Monika (b.1961; married Count Christoph Schenk von Stauffenberg), Fürst Erich (b.1962; married Duchess Mathilde of Württemberg), Countess Maria Adelheid (b.1964; married Count Max Emanuel von Rechberg und Rothenlöwen zu Hohenrechberg), and Countess Maria Elisabeth (b.1966; married Prince Engelbert von Croÿ).

Georg and Marie Gabrielle at the wedding of their daughter Maria Gabriele, 2004.

Photograph (c) Seeger-Presse.

Princess Marie Gabrielle of Bavaria was widowed in 2015 when her husband Georg died at the age of eighty-seven. 

Princess Marie Gabrielle, Fürst Georg, Duchess Mathilde, and Hereditary Count Erich, 1997. Photograph (c) Seeger-Presse.

Many happy returns of the day to Princess Marie Gabrielle!

As we conclude our tribute to Princess Marie's remarkable life, it is essential to acknowledge the profound impact she has had on the Danish royal family and the nation as a whole. Her unwavering dedication to her family and her country has left an indelible mark on the history of Denmark, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Princess Marie's commitment to her royal duties and her tireless efforts to support various charitable initiatives have made her a beloved figure in Danish society, earning her the respect and admiration of the people.

As we celebrate this significant milestone in Princess Marie's life, we are reminded of the importance of her role in the Danish royal family. Her contributions to the family's charitable endeavors and cultural events have been invaluable, and her presence has been a constant source of comfort and support to her loved ones. Princess Marie's remarkable life serves as a testament to the enduring power of dedication, compassion, and kindness. We wish her a joyous celebration of her 90th birthday and hope that her remarkable story will continue to inspire others to follow in her footsteps, making a positive difference in the world around them.