European royals gather in Athens for funeral of Princess Irene

The European royal families came together to commemorate the life of Princess Irene before being laid to rest at Tatoi on Monday.

The mood was sombre on Monday morning as a plethora of members from the European royal families gathered in Athens for the funeral service and burial of Princess Irene of Greece. The late Princess died at the Palace of Zarzuela in Madrid last week after living a life of service to those less fortunate. She has been remembered as someone who gave everything for the betterment of others.

On Monday, the coffin of Princess Irene was laid in repose for a number of hours before ceremonies officially began. Members of the public had an opportunity to pay their final respects and honour the late royal in a small church just outside the Cathedral known as ‘Little Metropolis’. Many remembered a person who was devoted to instilling the values of selflessness and nurture in every aspect of life.

Around 10:30 am, Crown Prince Pavlos, Prince Nikolaos, and Prince Philippos walked to the Church of St. Eleutherius (Μικρή Μητρόπολη, Mikrí Mitrópoli) adjoining the Cathedral to retrieve their beloved Aunt Pecu. In a small procession, the mortal remains of Princess Irene were brought into the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens for a touching service to be attended by family across Europe.

Royal guests began to arrive, including Crown Prince Alexander and Crown Princess Katherine of Serbia, Princess Sophie-Alexandra of Bavaria, Princess Elisabeth, Duchess in Bavaria, and Prince Christian of Hanover. Princess Sofia of Romania arrived as well, greeting Pavlos with a curtsy.

Soon came the grief-stricken Queen Sofia of Spain—who has lost her dear sister—with Infanta Elena, Infanta Christina, and their children. King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, the Princess of Asturias, and Infanta Sofia were in a car close behind. The Spanish Royal Family is in mourning once more following the train collision that left dozens dead and injured.

The Greek Royal Family then arrived as Queen Anne Marie led the royals to the Metropolitan Cathedral. Crown Prince Pavlos affectionately greeted his mother before the family entered the sombre atmosphere.

Inside the Cathedral, various royal guests were seated as ceremonies began. During the service, Crown Prince Pavlos gave a reading, as did Prince Nikolaos, describing Irene as the ‘Princess of the Poor’ for her life’s work not only to people and communities but also to animals and the natural world as well.

As the services concluded, the coffin was processed out of the Metropolitan Cathedral of Athens, where a nearby hearse was awaiting the remains. The royal families stood alongside each other, arm in arm, watching as the coffin of the late Princess was driven away. Many shouts of support were heard from the public.

On the grounds of Tatoi Palace, the royal families joined together in the Chapel of the Resurrection of the Lord for a final intimate ceremony. The royal standard of the Kingdom of Greece (1832/1935—1973) was briefly placed on the coffin for the short religious service. After being officiated by the Greek Orthodox Clergy, the royals then carried the Princess to her final burial place.