A Budding Connection: Could King Baudouin Have Married Princess María Teresa?
A recently resurfaced rumor suggests a potential royal romance that never came to fruition: a possible match between King Baudouin of Belgium and Princess María Teresa of Luxembourg. The story, brought to light by a new book, explores a connection between the two heirs apparent during a pivotal time for both nations.
King Baudouin ascended to the Belgian throne in 1951, following his father, King Leopold III’s, abdication. Simultaneously, María Teresa became the heir presumptive to the Luxembourgish throne in 1961, as her father, Grand Duke Charlotte, had no male heir. This timing created a unique dynamic within European royal circles.
The potential pairing gained attention as both royals navigated their roles and responsibilities. While details surrounding the rumored connection remain scarce, the possibility of a union between Belgium and Luxembourg sparked considerable interest.
Princess Joséphine-Charlotte of Belgium, Baudouin’s sister, ultimately married Hereditary Grand Duke Jean of Luxembourg in 1953. The wedding featured dazzling diamond tiaras and, as reported, a degree of family drama. The tiara worn at the wedding has since been worn by other Belgian royal brides, including Grand Duchess Maria Teresa.
In a documentary, Joséphine-Charlotte recalled telling her father about her engagement. “To whom?” King Leopold exclaimed, suggesting the match wasn’t entirely preordained. This anecdote hints at a degree of personal agency in the royal decision-making process.
King Baudouin later married Fabiola de Mora y Aragón in 1960. The newly surfaced rumor offers a glimpse into the “what ifs” of royal history, reminding us that even within established traditions, personal connections and potential alliances play a role. The story highlights the intricate web of relationships among European royalty and the enduring fascination with their lives.
Hereditary Grand Duke Jean and Princess Joséphine-Charlotte were pictured in March 1953 before their April 9th wedding in Luxembourg’s cathedral. Royal guests, including King Baudouin (uncle) and Queen Fabiola of Belgium, and King Olav V of Norway (great-uncle) attended the celebration.
