The last surviving grandson of King George I of Greece, uncle of King Charles III of Greece, died at the age of 85.
His death closes an important chapter in European royal history.
The Greek newspaper Ekathimerini reported on July 28 that the writer and historian Michel de Grece died in an Athens hospital. His funeral plans have not yet been released.
He had strong ties to the British royal family and was known as Prince Michael. He was said to be the only living grandson of King George I of Greece.
The Greek prince was the uncle of King Charles III. and the late Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, was his cousin.
In addition to his royal heritage, Michel was also known for his unusual personal life. He made headlines in 1965 when he renounced his royal powers and married a simple artist named Marina Karella.
Michel’s life changed dramatically as a result of this remarkable departure from royal custom. The marriage produced five grandchildren and two daughters, Princess Alexandra and Princess Olga.
Michel decided not to leave Greece. Even after the failed counter-coup in 1967, when the then King Constantine tried to overthrow the military junta in power, he remained in the nation. This choice demonstrated his commitment to Greece and his deep ties to his native land.
Michel’s work was greatly influenced by his life in Greece. The historian has written extensively on European royalty, the Ottoman Empire, and Greek history. His numerous writings, which are still influential today, attest to his love of history.
Michel’s Instagram feed offered viewers a glimpse into his personal life by posting stories about his family, life, and travels in addition to historical work. He also expressed his views on the British monarchy in 2021.
One day, speaking of Charles, Michel expressed sympathy for the difficulties he had encountered. “I don’t know if he’s perfect or not,” he remarked. I know he can hardly perform better than he is at the moment. I believe he is giving it his all. And [Queen Camilla]. It’s really challenging.
Michel was not jealous of Charles’s position and did not regret going his own way away from the royal spotlight. “I don’t envy him one bit—poor guy. And he approaches it with fun and determination. So does she.”
However, I would really hate the job,” he revealed.
In addition to his views on the British monarchy, Michel also addressed the state of many families in modern times, noting that there are many “fighting, hating each other”.
He talked about how much he loved his own family. “My wife, children, and grandchildren are my own family that I love.
For me, that’s the most important thing. My life has been full of adventure and learning. And I still have a lot of questions. Now my grandchildren are introducing me to technology. It’s amazing. It was an adventure for me. “It always is,” he explained.
A magnificent chapter of European monarchy and history ends with Michel’s death. His imprint on Greek and European royal history will be remembered for years to come for his distinctive personal decisions and important publications.
The departure of Michel de Greco marks the end of an era for Greek and European royal families. As the last surviving grandson of King George I of Greece, his death at the age of 85 closes an important chapter in royal history. Marked by personal choices that defied tradition, such as marrying a commoner and devoting himself to a life outside the royal spotlight, his life set him apart from many of his royal peers.
Michel’s contributions as a historian and author were invaluable, his work on European royalty, the Ottoman Empire, and Greek history leaving a lasting impact. His unique insight into the British monarchy, particularly his reflections on the role of King Charles III, offered a thoughtful and candid look at the challenges facing the modern royal family. Despite his royal heritage, Michel has never regretted his decision to live a more private life, focused on family, personal growth, and a passion for history.
His devotion to Greece, even in the face of political upheaval, further emphasized his deep connection to his homeland. Reflecting on the importance of family both in his personal life and within his wider historical interests, it is clear that Michel de Grece valued the bonds that defined his world. His life, though marked by adventure and change, was rooted in a love of family and a determination to discover history in its many forms.
As we say goodbye to Michel de Greco, his legacy will live on in his writings, in the memory of his family, and in the lasting influence he had on the history of European royalty. His passing serves as a reminder of the rich and complex tapestry of royal history and the personal stories that weave it. He will be remembered not only for his royal connections but also for the courage he showed in choosing his own path and the thoughtful contributions he made to our understanding of history.