Countess Beatrix of Schönburg-Glauchau: A Life of Elegance and Legacy

The Countess Beatrix of Schönburg-Glauchau, a name that resonates with the rich history of the European nobility, has left an indelible mark on the annals of time. Born into a family with a long tradition of aristocracy, Beatrix's life was marked by a unique blend of elegance, refinement, and a deep commitment to her heritage. Her story is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Schönburg-Glauchau family, whose influence extended far beyond the borders of their native Germany. As we delve into the fascinating life of Countess Beatrix, we are treated to a glimpse into a world of opulence, grandeur, and a sense of duty that defined her existence. From her early years in the midst of the tumultuous 19th century to her later years as a respected figure in European society, Beatrix's journey is a compelling narrative that weaves together the threads of family, duty, and personal growth.

The death notice of Countess Beatrix.

Placed in Mittelbayerische Zeitung.

On 30 September, Countess Beatrix of Schönburg-Glauchau died at hospital in Regensburg. She was ninety-one years-old. The passing of the countess was announced by her daughter Fürstin Gloria of Thurn and Taxis. 

Count Bálint Széchényi and Princess Maria Pavlovna Galitzine

Beatrix's mum: Princess Maria Pavlovna Galitzine

On 30 January 1930, Countess Beatrix Maria Valeria Therese Emerica Széchényi de Sárvár-Felsövidék was born at Hegyko, Hungary. Beatrix was the fourth daughter and last child of Count Bálint Széchényi de Sárvár-Felsövidék (1893 - 1954) and his wife Princess Maria Pavlovna Galitzine (1895 - 1976), who had married in 1921. Beatrix joined three older sisters: Marianne (1923 - 1999; married in 1952 to Olivér de Harisi), Alexandra (1926 - 2018; married in 1958 to Baron Dietrich-Eberhard von Wrede), and Eva (1928 - 1997). Beatrix's parents Bálint and Maria divorced in 1931.

Newlyweds: Count Joachim and Countess Beatrix von Schönburg-Glauchau

In October 1957, Beatrix married Count Joachim von Schönburg-Glauchau (1929 - 1998). The couple had four children during the course of their union: Countess Maya (1958 - 2019), Countess Gloria (b.1960), Count Carl-Alban (b.1966), and Count Alexander (b.1969). Beatrix and Joachim divorced in 1986. Beatrix never remarried; Joachim wed the mother of his youngest child the same year that his divorce from Beatrix was finalised.

Beatrix with her daughter Fürstin Gloria von Thurn und Taxis and her grandson Fürst Albert in 2003. Photograph (c) Presse-Foto-Seeger

Countess Beatrix with her elder sister Countess Alexandra in 2003. Photograph (c) Presse-Foto-Seeger 

Beatrix with her late daughter Maya in 2003. Photograph (c) Presse-Foto-Seeger

Over the years, all of Beatrix's children married, and she was able to enjoy numerous grandchildren. Her eldest daughter, Countess Maya von Schönburg-Glauchau, married German industrial heir Friedrich Christian "Mick" Flick (b.1944) in 1985. Maya and Mick had three children: Alexander, Maria-Pilar, and Ernst-Moritz. The couple divorced in 1993. Maya went on to have another daughter by her partner Stefan Hipp: Carlotta. After some years of illness, Countess Maya died of breast cancer in 2019 at the home of her mother.

Johannes and Gloria of Thurn and Taxis with their three children.

In 1980, Beatrix's youngest daughter, Mariae Gloria, married eventual Fürst Johannes von Thurn und Taxis (1926 - 1990). Gloria and Johannes had three children: Princess Maria Theresia (b.1980), Princess Elisabeth (b.1982), and current Fürst Albert (b.1983). Maria Theresia married British artist Hugo Wilson in 2014; the pair have two daughters, Mafalda (b.2015) and Maya (b.2017).

Count Carl-Alban, Countess Juliet, and their sons Counts Hubertus (the taller) and Benedikt (the smaller) in 2012. Photograph (c) ALAMY / Ursula Dueren

Beatrix's eldest son Carl-Alban married Juliet Beechy-Fowler (b.1966) in 1995. At the time of his marriage, Carl-Alban gave up his rights to the Schönburg-Glauchau title; these passed to his younger brother Alexander. Carl-Alban and his wife Juliet have two sons: Hubertus (b.1996) and Benedikt (b.1999).

Count Alexander von Schönburg-Glauchau and Princess Irina of Hesse on their wedding day

The benjamin of the family, Count Alexander, married Princess Irina of Hesse (b.1971) in 1999. Irina is the daughter of Prince Karl of Hesse and his wife Princess Yvonne. Irina's grandparents were Prince Christoph of Hesse and Princess Sophie of Greece and Denmark, a sister of the Duke of Edinburgh. Alexander and Irina of Schönburg-Glauchau have three children: Countess Maria-Letitia (b.2001), Count Maximus (b.2003), and Count Valentin (b.2005). Alexander has worked as a columnist for Vanity Fair.

May the Countess Rest in Peace.

As we conclude our exploration of the remarkable life of Countess Beatrix of Schönburg-Glauchau, we are reminded of the profound impact she had on those around her. Her unwavering dedication to her family and her heritage is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Schönburg-Glauchau family, whose influence extends far beyond the borders of their native Germany. The Countess's life, marked by elegance, refinement, and a deep commitment to her roots, serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and honoring the memories of those who have shaped our world.

As we bid farewell to this captivating story, we are left with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to learn about the life of this extraordinary individual. The Countess's journey, though marked by challenges and triumphs, is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength that define the human spirit. May her memory continue to inspire future generations to cherish and honor their own heritage, just as she did hers. May the Countess Beatrix rest in peace, her legacy forever etched in the annals of history.