Princess Charlène: to Pope Francis' grief she celebrates Gracia Patricia

Princess Charlène: to Pope Francis' grief she celebrates Gracia Patricia

Princess Charlène von Monaco took part in a requiem for Pope Francis on St. Peter's Square in Rome on April 26, 2023, on the occasion of his death on Easter Monday. Her appearance, the memories of Gracia Patricia, the mother of Prince Albert II and former Hollywood icon, merged, fell into the context of a funeral service that brought together many important personalities from all over the world.

Charlène wore an elegant black ensemble that in combination with a classic mantilla made of fine tip, which covered the head and shoulders, corresponded to the demanding dress code for female mourners. This traditional and mourning clothing is deeply rooted in Catholic culture. The mantilla is usually worn by church funerals and also served Gracia Patricia as a sign of respect during her appearances in the Vatican. Your look back at the tradition that a visit to Pope Pius XII in 1957. started, the connection between royal heir and respect for religious customs.

a strong sign of respect

The Mantilla has a long story and is often referred to as a ceremonial Spanish garment that is passed on from generation to generation. Their origins are diverse; Some claim that they were created in the northern regions of Spain, while other sources suspect Muslim headscarves from Andalusia. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Mantilla reached its greatest popularity and became a symbol of a tradition that is strongly associated with Catholic ceremonies. In the case of audience with the Pope, it is a tradition that women wear black mantillas, which underlined the formal grief of Francis.

At the funeral service, which took place under strict security precautions, numerous royals and heads of state were present, including King Felipe VI. And Queen Letizia of Spain, who also wore a mantilla. This choice reflected the strict regulations that apply to private trees in St. Peter's Basilica, including a correct greeting and adequate clothing, such as wearing a top black for women.

grief for a Pope

The condolences for the late Pope Francis came from all over the world. Personalities such as the Austrian Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen and his wife Doris Schmidauer, ex-Federal Chancellor Sebastian Kurz as well as Hollywood stars such as Eva Longoria and Jimmy Kimmel shared their memories of the Pope on social media. Francis will be buried in Rome next Saturday. Which illustrate this strict dress code for this occasion and the importance of the mantilla how important the ritual is in the Catholic church and court culture.

In addition, it should be mentioned that the so -called "Privilege du Blanc" allows certain Catholic women such as Queen Letizia of Spain or Princess Charlène of Monaco to wear white clothing in papal papers. Traditionally, however, is worn in black at papal funerals, which underlines the serious and respectful atmosphere of this special ceremony.