Luxembourg's Downton Abbey and Other News

The Château de Fischbach during the 1980's

Let's start with the "other news"... Between October 2 and October 6 the 7th EMAS (Europe, Medtierranean & Arab States) Regional conference of the Mérite Jeunesse took place in Luxembourg. The Mérite Jeunesse, which is placed under the high patronage of Grand Duke Jean, is a member of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Association. Prince Guillaume, who is the president of the board of the Luxembourgish branch of the association, participated in the conference on at least three days - or at least I have seen pictures of him in three different outfits and outfit changes during the day aren't a very male thing to do, are they!? Check out here, here and here to convince yourself of my observation.

Turning to Downton Abbey... You might remember that we recently mentioned that Domaine Clarence Dillon was about to have a big auction in Asia -- if not, have a look here -- and on the occasion, Prince Robert, the Grand Duke's cousin, gave a little interview to Sotheby's blog, in which he also talked about growing up in Luxembourg.

"Where were you born? 
I was born at our family home, the Château de Fischbach in Luxembourg. 

What was your best memory growing up? 
I loved the castle, a beautiful house in an idyllic and bucolic setting overlooking woods, farmland and the small village. We lived with my parents, grandparents, one aunt and two cousins. Family and guests visited often and stayed in the house with us. It was wonderful to be so close to my grandmother, the Grand Duchess Charlotte, and other members of our extended family. The atmosphere was akin to a mini Downton Abbey, but without all of the pomp and grandeur. Our lifestyle was very simple and down to earth, but with a permanent staff and infrastructure that are now part of a bygone era."

The aunt and cousins Prince Robert is talking about are Princess Elisabeth, Duchess of Hohenberg and her two daughters Princess Anita and Princess Sophie who lived seperated from Duke Franz of Hohenberg in Luxembourg. For a few more details on the prince's private life, have a look at the full interview here. In case you'd like to learn more about Luxembourg's Downton Abbey, check this out.


Sources: Wort, Sotheby's