Births on January 15

Princess Michael of Kent

Princess Michael of Kent: A Comprehensive Profile

Princess Michael of Kent, born Baroness Marie-Christine Anna Agnes Hedwig Ida von Reibnitz on 15 January 1945, is a distinguished member of the British royal family. Her heritage is notably diverse, tracing back to German, Austrian, and Hungarian aristocratic lineages, reflecting a rich European background.

Noble Lineage and Early Life

Born into a noble family in Carlsbad (now Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic), Baroness Marie-Christine von Reibnitz inherited a rich tapestry of European ancestry. Her father, Baron Günther Hubertus von Reibnitz, was a Silesian nobleman, while her mother, Countess Maria Antonia Szapáry de Muraszombath, Széchy-Sziget et Szapár, hailed from a prominent Hungarian aristocratic family with additional Austrian roots. This heritage underscores her deep connections to the historical nobility of Central Europe.

Marriage into the British Royal Family

In 1978, she married Prince Michael of Kent at a civil ceremony in Vienna, followed by a blessing at St. Stephen's Cathedral. Prince Michael is a grandson of King George V, who reigned from 1910 to 1936, making him a first cousin to the late Queen Elizabeth II. Their marriage brought Baroness Marie-Christine into the heart of the British royal family, assuming the title Princess Michael of Kent. Distinctively, Prince Michael is a non-working member of the Royal Family, meaning he and Princess Michael do not receive public funds for their royal duties, funding their activities through their own professional endeavours.

Professional Engagements: From Interior Design to Acclaimed Author

Before her marriage and subsequent royal duties, Princess Michael of Kent pursued a career as an interior designer, showcasing her creative talents and entrepreneurial spirit. Following her integration into the British royal family, she transitioned her professional focus towards authorship, demonstrating a profound interest in historical subjects, particularly European royalty. She has authored several well-received books that delve into the lives and legacies of historical European monarchs and noble figures. Notable works include "Crowned in a Far Country: Portraits of Eight Royal Brides" (1986), "Cupid and the King: Five Royal Mistresses" (1991), and "The Serpent and The Moon: Two Americans in the Court of the Czars" (2004), which illustrate her comprehensive research and engaging narrative style.

Public Duties and Global Reach

Beyond her literary pursuits, Princess Michael of Kent actively participates in various public engagements. She is well-known for undertaking extensive lecture tours across the globe, sharing her insights on European history, royalty, and her personal experiences. These lectures serve as a platform for cultural exchange and education. Furthermore, she consistently supports her husband, Prince Michael of Kent, in his wide array of public duties. These responsibilities often involve supporting various charities, acting as patron for numerous organizations, and representing the British monarchy at events both domestically and internationally, contributing to the charitable and diplomatic efforts associated with the Royal Family.

Frequently Asked Questions about Princess Michael of Kent

What is Princess Michael of Kent's full birth name?

Her full birth name is Baroness Marie-Christine Anna Agnes Hedwig Ida von Reibnitz.

What is Princess Michael of Kent's background?

She was born into an aristocratic family with German, Austrian, and Hungarian descent, giving her a diverse European noble heritage.

How is Princess Michael of Kent related to Queen Elizabeth II?

She is married to Prince Michael of Kent, who is a grandson of King George V and a first cousin to the late Queen Elizabeth II.

What professional careers has Princess Michael of Kent pursued?

Before her marriage, she worked as an interior designer. Subsequently, she became an accomplished author, specializing in books about European royalty, and also conducts international lecture tours.

Does Princess Michael of Kent receive public funds for her duties?

No, Princess Michael of Kent and Prince Michael of Kent are considered non-working royals, meaning they do not receive public funds for their official duties and support themselves through their professional work.